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Murray Shanahan: What are Conscious Exotica? Consciousness, AI & the Space of Possible Minds

Mind-Body Solution

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Exploring the Nature of Consciousness and Self-Awareness

Consciousness is often perceived as constant, yet in reality, individuals are frequently on autopilot, leading to limited self-awareness. Marvin Minsky's insight humorously highlights the notion that if humans struggle with self-awareness, creating a conscious computer may remain unattainable. Additionally, the concept of privileged access to one's own consciousness is challenged. While individuals have immediate awareness of their surroundings, the deeper philosophical view suggests a misleading reification of experience. This tendency to treat consciousness as a tangible entity complicates understanding, as it invites confusion about the nature of experience itself. Recognizing the pitfalls of this 'thingification' allows for a more nuanced exploration of consciousness and self-awareness.

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