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We must reject any notion of AI consciousness | Letters

Summary

Artificial intelligence systems won’t become conscious for the same reason they won’t become pregnant, says Dr John Pickering.

SourceThe Guardian AIAuthor: Guardian Staff
We must reject any notion of AI consciousness | Letters
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Artificial intelligence systems won’t become conscious for the same reason they won’t become pregnant, says Dr John Pickering

Anil Seth is right to point out that to overestimate artificial intelligence is to underestimate ourselves (Once again we are told AI may be conscious – I study consciousness, and I have my doubts, 15 July). But he is wrong only to have doubts about whether AI systems like Claude may become conscious. He should be certain, and should say so more forcefully.

It’s not like anything to be Claude, just as it’s not like anything to be a washing machine. An academic education is not required to realise that, common sense will do. Artificial intelligence systems won’t become conscious for the same reason they won’t become pregnant; they’re not that sort of thing.

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Key points and analysis

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Key points

  • Anil Seth correctly notes that overestimating AI underestimates ourselves.
  • Dr Pickering argues doubts about AI consciousness should be certainty.
  • AI systems have no subjective experience, like a washing machine.
  • AI cannot become conscious for the same reason it cannot become pregnant.

Highlights and analysis are generated automatically and may contain errors. Check the original source.

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