Thoughtforms Life

Dive into the fascinating parallels between biological processes and technological information processing. Discover how insights from nature can inform advancements in artificial intelligence. The conversation also delves into the intricate relationships between biology, physics, and mathematics, challenging conventional views on life's complexity. Explore the ethical considerations and implications for developing diverse intelligences in our increasingly tech-driven world!

This is a ~46 minute talk given at a conference on consciousness, presenting my lab's data on cognition in body organs outside the brain and then some speculations about the mind-body connection more generally (fleshing out my Platonic space model with symmetries between brain:mind relationships and mathematics:physics relationships). CONNECT WITH ME: Podcast Website YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Twitter Blog The Levin Lab

This is a ~1 hour 7 minute talk I gave at the SEMF Interdisciplinary School (July 2025, https://semf.org.es/school2025/#speakers-container) on agency ways to think about expanding our ability to detect and communicate with unconventional minds. The same talk but with a lengthy Q&A will be up on the SEMF website. CONNECT WITH ME: Podcast Website YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Twitter Blog The Levin Lab

Explore the fascinating relationship between biology and complexity, discussing embodied intelligence and the evolving understanding of synthetic life. Discover how collective intelligence, illustrated by axolotl regeneration and cellular signaling, is shaping regenerative medicine. Delve into metamorphosis as caterpillars transform into butterflies, revealing insights into memory and adaptation. Finally, investigate the challenges of formal models in complexity, advocating for bio-inspired approaches to technology and innovation.

Discover how biological materials can be collaborative partners in biomedicine and bioengineering. The discussion highlights the intersection of neuroscience and behavior to innovate research funding. Explore the fascinating synergy between bioengineering and robotics, revealing the importance of sound in biological mechanisms. The talk emphasizes unique approaches, like training cells and experimenting with flatworms, to unlock new advancements in tissue engineering.

In this thought-provoking conversation, Michael Johnson, an expert on consciousness and cellular dynamics, dives into the intriguing world of awareness at the cellular level. He discusses the potential for cellular consciousness and its implications in biology. Johnson explores the balance of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation in both biological and algorithmic systems, challenging conventional views on intelligence. Key concepts like symmetry breaking and the role of geometry in biological adaptations provide a unique lens on collective intelligence and consciousness.

Dive into the intriguing intersection of consciousness and intelligence. Discover how both biological and artificial forms can reshape our understanding of cognition. The discussion on how cells collectively make decisions challenges traditional views of intelligence. Explore the continuum of consciousness, moving beyond binary definitions. Finally, ponder the evolution of human understanding and the practical applications of these philosophical insights, all while emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration.

Dive into the intriguing world of teleology and its relevance to biology. Explore the concept of goal-directedness in cognitive skills, where intelligence is seen as fluid. Discover how biological systems, like axolotls, showcase collective intelligence to tackle challenges. Uncover the fascinating behaviors of xenobots and anthrobots, emphasizing self-replication and adaptation. Finally, challenge traditional views as even minimal systems reveal surprising cognitive competencies, expanding the definition of intelligence.

Murray Shanahan, a Professor of Cognitive Robotics at Imperial College London, dives into the captivating realm of consciousness and artificial intelligence. He discusses how cognitive processes relate to bodily consciousness, advocating for new communication tools for intelligences. The conversation navigates the complexities of defining consciousness across entities, intertwining philosophy and creativity. Shanahan also explores the rational study of causality in evolution and the philosophical implications of natural patterns, emphasizing the interconnectedness of reality and cognitive emergence.

This is a ~1 hour discussion with Adam Safron (https://www.adamsafron.com/) and Max Shen (https://www.maxkshen.com/home), and Michael Levinabout diverse intelligence and its relevance for pain. CONNECT WITH ME: Podcast Website YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Twitter Blog The Levin Lab