On the nature of human vs. artificial intelligence

[TriPolar]

@Babale

The idea is that you could have an AI that can do anything a human can, but with no consciousness (like how ChatGPT can hold a conversation or solve logic problems without being conscious); and that if this is the case then allowing for consciousness is inefficient (because presumably it takes extra energy for our brains to be conscious).

That is one way to look at it. I think it more that what we call consciousness is nothing but awareness combined with intelligence. Human brains have inefficiencies like egotism that produce nonsensical results sometimes, like the belief that consciousness is something more complex than awareness combined with intelligence. We have more intelligence and have greater complexity in our motivations than a mouse or the laptop I am typing on, but no more consciousness than either.

[TriPolar]

@Babale

It’s a compelling argument, but I will note that if our consciousness evolved, then there was selective pressure that made it evolve and thus, presumably, it is advantageous in some way.

I think the inefficiency is simply the result of an evolvable model of intelligence.

[EastUmpqua]

I thought this conversation with ChatGPT was interesting:

Me: You said “Human rights are a set of principles and standards that are universally recognized and apply to all people”. Why is it important for AI to adhere to these principles?

ChatGPT: It is important for AI to adhere to the principles of human rights because AI systems are increasingly being used in decision-making processes that can have significant impacts on people’s lives, such as hiring, credit scoring, and criminal justice. If AI systems are not designed and implemented in a way that respects human rights, they can perpetuate and even amplify existing biases and discrimination, leading to unfair and unjust outcomes. Additionally, AI systems may have access to personal information and other sensitive data, which raises concerns about privacy and surveillance. By adhering to the principles of human rights, AI can be designed and implemented in a way that promotes fairness, accountability, and transparency, and protects the rights and dignity of all individuals.

Too bad Isaac Asimov isn’t still alive…

[Biffster]

Good answer. For a machine.

[Jackmannii]

This is fabulous.

Eric Burnett, MD

[Voyager]

@TriPolar

That is one way to look at it. I think it more that what we call consciousness is nothing but awareness combined with intelligence.

Self awareness is hardly a nothing. Our subconscious minds (and the mind of my old genius border collie) can solve difficult problems. But a self conscious mind can examine how to solve a problem and come up with a better technique intentionally (used loosely.) I suspect we could do that from the very beginning of our consciousness, and that is enough of an advantage to be worth the extra energy requirement - and maybe analysis paralysis - that comes with it.