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Episode #47 (EN): Attention Schema Theory (Illusion of consciousness) with Michael Graziano

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Manage episode 506652484 series 2925816
Content provided by ASEF Podcast. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by ASEF Podcast or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://podcastplayer.com/legal.

In this episode of the ASF Podcast, neuroscientist and Princeton professor Michael Graziano joins host Tanja Janko to unpack his Attention Schema Theory.

Graziano explains why consciousness can be understood as a self-model, how our brains construct simplified versions of ourselves and others, and why this illusion is both useful and inevitable.

He contrasts his theory with Global Workspace Theory and critiques Integrated Information Theory, highlighting why a self-model is essential to any scientific account of consciousness.

During the conversation, we also dive into the evolutionary roots of consciousness, the pitfalls of panpsychism, parallels with phantom limb phenomena, and what these ideas mean for humans, animals, and potentially machines.

The discussion moves from the false belief task as a probe of the theory of mind, to reinterpreting the original Turing test. We also talk about what it would take to build conscious machines.

We conclude the conversation with a look at the ethical dilemmas of mind uploading and why understanding consciousness may be the key to navigating the AI revolution —a transition as profound as the origin of life itself.

If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend, learn more about ASEF on our website and consider donating to support the ASEF's mission and programs!

  continue reading

47 episodes

Artwork
iconShare
 
Manage episode 506652484 series 2925816
Content provided by ASEF Podcast. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by ASEF Podcast or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://podcastplayer.com/legal.

In this episode of the ASF Podcast, neuroscientist and Princeton professor Michael Graziano joins host Tanja Janko to unpack his Attention Schema Theory.

Graziano explains why consciousness can be understood as a self-model, how our brains construct simplified versions of ourselves and others, and why this illusion is both useful and inevitable.

He contrasts his theory with Global Workspace Theory and critiques Integrated Information Theory, highlighting why a self-model is essential to any scientific account of consciousness.

During the conversation, we also dive into the evolutionary roots of consciousness, the pitfalls of panpsychism, parallels with phantom limb phenomena, and what these ideas mean for humans, animals, and potentially machines.

The discussion moves from the false belief task as a probe of the theory of mind, to reinterpreting the original Turing test. We also talk about what it would take to build conscious machines.

We conclude the conversation with a look at the ethical dilemmas of mind uploading and why understanding consciousness may be the key to navigating the AI revolution —a transition as profound as the origin of life itself.

If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend, learn more about ASEF on our website and consider donating to support the ASEF's mission and programs!

  continue reading

47 episodes

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