From: mk_thisisit
The discussion with Professor Krzysztof Zan in Castel Gandolfo, as part of a Master’s program, explores the profound implications of technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), on humanity’s present and future [00:00:47].
Humanity’s Evolving Nature
Humanity has long been described by various adjectives, such as “homo economicus” [00:00:11]. However, a new term, “homo technicus” or “technological man,” is increasingly used in biology to define humanity’s current state [00:06:13]. This reflects the profound dependence on technology, which has significantly improved living conditions, offering comfort and abundance previously unknown in history [00:06:37].
Technology’s influence extends beyond convenience, fundamentally altering human biology. Examples include changes in skin coverings and eye functioning systems due to exposure to blue light [00:07:29]. More significant transformations are anticipated with future prospects like genetic engineering, which could expand memory, enhance imagination, and biologically improve humans [00:07:46]. This raises a crucial question: whether this “Trans man” will still be considered human, or if a new, better species will emerge [00:07:57].
“genetic engineering will come which will allow us for example to expand our memory expand our imagination improve ourselves biologically” [00:00:05] “we will not know In the end whether to call this Trans man a human or will he already be another species better than us” [00:00:22]
Artificial Intelligence: Threat or Tool?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is viewed by some as a powerful statistical machine [00:08:48]. However, there is a fear that AI could become a creature capable of gaining consciousness and self-awareness, making decisions in its own interest rather than its creator’s [00:09:01].
The Question of AI Experiencing Pain
A provocative question arises regarding the capacity of complex synthetic artificial neural networks to generate pain [00:10:01]. Research from the University of Queensland suggests that such systems already possess this ability, though the integration of AI robotics hasn’t yet reached a level allowing for the perception of this pain due to a lack of an interface [00:11:00].
The definition of pain is critical in this context; somatic pain originates in the human brain [00:10:20]. If AI were to genuinely feel pain, it would necessitate re-evaluating its status, potentially requiring protection as a living organism or an animal [00:11:20]. However, making definitive statements on this matter is cautioned against due to the deep ignorance surrounding such complex issues, advocating for humility and the emergence of undeniable evidence [00:11:50].
“complex synthetic artificial neural networks today already have the ability to generate pain, i.e. in this black box pain is already being created today” [00:10:01] “The awareness of this pain belongs to man And who belongs to the awareness of the machine’s pain, does it feel it itself or does it transmit it outside, it’s a very big difference” [00:10:27]
The Human Element
The pursuit of meaning in life has been a constant quest, bringing pain with every profound question [00:00:35]. The modern world, influenced by a “civilization of a full belly,” has seen a shift towards extreme individualism, focusing on “I” rather than “we” [00:02:28], [00:13:30]. This current era of perceived safety and prosperity, unlike historical periods marked by hunger, cold, and epidemics, fosters an illusion of invincibility [00:13:44].
However, this sense of security is fleeting, and vigilance is necessary because “we are never safe and never this full the belly is not guaranteed” [00:14:38]. The fragility of life and human plans remains a constant, and technology itself can fail [00:15:29].
The search for meaning, often depicted in art like Krzysztof Zan’s film The Perfect Number, offers solace [00:03:01], [00:17:52]. The concept that information is not lost, as proposed by Mr. Penrose, suggests that “total death” cannot exist, as individuals leave behind vital information about themselves [00:05:32]. This belief can offer hope that even after physical departure, something significant persists [00:05:50].
Ultimately, the quest for meaning, especially through immersing oneself in true love, provides an “indisputable” purpose for living [00:18:07]. While embracing big questions can be painful, it is a uniquely human experience [00:20:18].
“every big question about meaning hurts a little and it hurts us people and not artificial intelligence” [00:00:35] “if a person immerses himself in some true love then this meaning is already indisputable he already knows why he lives” [00:18:07]