Andy Clark challenges the notion that emerging learning machines, which utilize deep learning algorithms to mine big data for complex problem-solving, will lead to alien forms of intelligence. He proposes that as these machines learn more, they may end up thinking in ways that resemble human thought processes and even apply emotional and ethical labels … Read more
Tim O’Reilly discusses the common assumption that artificial intelligence (AI) is often portrayed as individual consciousness, similar to human self-awareness. However, he challenges this perspective by proposing that AI could be more like a multicellular organism, beyond the prokaryote nature of human consciousness. He extends this metaphor by suggesting that humans might be like the … Read more
Susan Blackmore proposes that human thinking is influenced by memes, which have shaped our brains and thought processes over time. Similarly, she believes that machines are evolving to think in their own way, influenced by the next replicator, which is taking over digital technology and creating its own thinking machines. Blackmore challenges the idea that … Read more
Robert Provine argues that we should not fear future clashes between humanity and machines, even as machines become more competent and intelligent. Humans possess qualities like cunning, deception, revenge, suspicion, and unpredictability, which machines lack. These qualities, often considered irrational, can be adaptive and lead to creative solutions. Human sociality and collective intelligence are valuable … Read more
Mark Pagel asserts that full-blown artificial intelligence should not be perceived as an existential threat to humanity. He argues that machines, as they advance in intelligence, will not develop inherent qualities like evilness or self-interest, which are typical of living organisms driven by self-preservation. Unlike living creatures, machines lack the innate desire for self-preservation and … Read more
Roger Schank asserts that the idea of machines thinking and the need to worry, regulate, or grant them civil rights is unfounded. He discusses two predominant approaches to AI: one that mimics human behavior and one that relies on fast statistics-based computing. He argues that neither approach will lead to machines creating a new society. … Read more
Donald D. Hoffman explores the potential ways in which artificial intelligences (AIs) might think, feel, and evolve, drawing from the diversity of natural intelligences found in the biological world. He highlights the following key points: 1. Variety of Intelligence : Hoffman suggests that AIs could exhibit a wide range of thinking and feeling capabilities, much … Read more
Nick Bostrom addresses the topic of machines that think and the implications of superintelligence in his article: 1. Complexity of the Topic: Bostrom expresses the opinion that discussions about machines that think are often oversimplified or tied to science fiction clichés. He highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of the topic, particularly in … Read more
Frank Wilczek discusses various aspects of artificial intelligence (AI) in his article: 1. Emergence of Consciousness: Wilczek mentions Francis Crick’s idea that consciousness is an emergent property of matter, implying that all intelligence, whether natural or artificial, is essentially machine intelligence. The distinction lies in how it’s created. He highlights the blurring of boundaries between … Read more
Carlo Rovelli addresses the confusion surrounding thinking machines by distinguishing between two questions. Question 1: How close are machines we’ve built or will build to thinking like humans? Rovelli emphasizes the vast gap in performance, structure, and function between our best computers and a child’s brain. He suggests that discussions about dealing with thinking machines … Read more