Could an AI be conscious? Discussing Recent Research
The Event
Nobody knows whether an AI system could be conscious. Not the philosophers, not the labs building them, not the researchers now taking the question seriously enough to publish on it. But the research of the last few years has given us some clues worth talking about.
This isn't a talk. It's a conversation. The hope is to get a serious discussion going around a question that's received a lot of confused attention lately.
You'll get a handout with several different positions on the question -- some incompatible, none labelled as the right one. Then we talk in small groups about which ones hold up, what would actually count as evidence, and what follows if we genuinely can't tell.
No background needed. This is one of the rare questions where nobody is unqualified -- just bring an open mind. Seats are limited, so RSVPs are approved individually -- you'll get a confirmation once you're in.
Hosted at Qishr Coffee House. The event is free, but we ask that everyone buys a drink or something from the counter -- it's how we keep the space. Show your RSVP at the till for 10% off drinks that evening.
~90 minutes. Bring your curiosity, leave the laptop at home.
About your host
Amir Kiani, PhD is an independent AI researcher and engineer investigating the foundations and implications of artificial intelligence -- including ethics, alignment, and consciousness. He researches and writes on emerging issues in AI safety and ethics, and regularly gives talks at universities, conferences, and organizations such as Microsoft and the University of Toronto. He hosts the Virtuous Machines podcast, where he explores the intersection of AI and philosophy. Learn more about Amir, his research, and his podcast at: https://virtuousmachines.com. Get in touch with him on LinkedIn: /amir-kiani