Peter Hershock

Peter D. Hershock, a professor at the East-West Center in Honolulu, dives into the intricate relationship between consciousness and Buddhist teachings. He explores consciousness as a relational phenomenon, influenced by environment, culture, and our ethical choices. The discussion covers the complexities of machine consciousness and the ethical challenges posed by AI. Hershock emphasizes the significance of altered states and their implications for human experiences while advocating for intentional engagement with consciousness in the face of advancing technology.

Peter D. Hershock, Director of the Asian Studies Development Program, dives into how Buddhism can guide us through the complexities of intelligent technology. He discusses the ethical implications of AI and its impact on human consciousness, cautioning against the outsourcing of our cognitive functions. Hershock highlights the need for a diversified ethical framework, merging Buddhist teachings with Western philosophies to foster genuine human connections. His insights reveal the potential of ancient wisdom to shape a more equitable relationship with technology.

In this discussion, Peter D. Hershock, a Professor at the East-West Center, shares insights from his book which fuses Buddhist philosophy with modern understandings of consciousness. He argues that consciousness is a relational phenomenon shaped by our environments and cultures. Topics covered include the ethics of machine morality, the implications of AI on human behavior, and the transformative effects of meditation. Hershock emphasizes the intertwining of consciousness with both matter and relationships, urging us to engage compassionately with our evolving understanding.