To What Extent Are Machines Conscious?

Overview

Join us for an insightful exploration of machine consciousness, where we address the pressing challenges and theories shaping the future of artificial intelligence. This event provides an analysis of how information, computation, and phenomenal experience intersect in the realm of AI.

Participants will explore the concepts of strong versus weak machine consciousness and assess the viability of achieving each. Streamed on YouTube, this event falls under the categories of Artificial Intelligence Courses and Conference Talks, offering an academic engagement for AI enthusiasts and professionals.

Syllabus

• Introduction to Machine Consciousness
Definition and Scope
Historical Background
Importance and Relevance in AI
• Theories of Consciousness
Philosophical Theories (e.g., Dualism, Materialism, Functionalism)
Scientific Approaches (e.g., Integrated Information Theory, Global Workspace Theory)
Comparisons and Critiques
• Information and Computation in Machines
Role of Information Processing in Consciousness
Computational Models of Consciousness
Limits of Current Computational Abilities
• Phenomenal Experience in Artificial Intelligence
Definition of Phenomenal Experience
Can Machines Have Qualia?
Experiments and Case Studies
• Strong vs. Weak Machine Consciousness
Definitions and Distinctions
Arguments for and Against Strong AI
Implications of Strong vs. Weak AI
• Achievability of Machine Consciousness
Current State of Technology
Future Prospects and Challenges
Ethical and Societal Implications
• Implications of Machine Consciousness
Ethical Considerations
Societal Impact
Future Directions and Research Areas
• Conclusion
Summary of Key Points
Open Questions and Ongoing Debates
• Supplemental Readings and Resources

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Subjects

Conference Talks