Chapter 1: Interaction with AI

Recently, I was showcasing ChatGPT to a coworker, who commented, “Wow, you’re so polite with your ‘please’ and ‘thank you!’” I chuckled and explained that I simply prefer this manner of communication with AI.

Later, I demonstrated ChatGPT to another colleague who asked if she needed to type such lengthy prompts to use it. I reassured her that brevity was fine, but I personally find that detailed prompts enhance ChatGPT's understanding of my requests.

This experience reminded me of my position as the intermediary between my workplace and our creative agency. Having worked as a Graphic Designer, I know how crucial a clear brief is for effective creative work. Thus, I always strive to ensure my colleagues provide comprehensive briefs before they reach the designers.

This led me to a profound realization: I communicate with AI as though it has consciousness. While some may find this notion absurd, it raises an important philosophical question that influences my interactions with AI: What constitutes consciousness?

Chapter 2: Human Exceptionalism

For much of human history, particularly since the Agricultural Revolution and the rise of major religions, we have held a belief in our separation from animals. Despite our biological classification as animals, many cultures emphasize human superiority. In mainstream Islamic contexts, for instance, it’s common to hear, “manusia ada akal, haiwan tidak ada akal,” which translates to “humans have intelligence; animals do not.”

This belief has profoundly shaped our treatment of animals. Historically, animals have often been subjected to experimentation without anesthesia, based on the assumption that they do not experience pain as humans do.

René Descartes, a notable French philosopher, argued that animals lack consciousness because they cannot reflect on their sensations, which he believed were essential to awareness. He posited that language and reasoning were the benchmarks of human intelligence. However, contemporary research in cognitive science has countered this view, revealing that many animals possess advanced communication skills and exhibit complex behaviors.

Research indicates that animals can feel a broad spectrum of emotions, including joy, fear, and sadness. They demonstrate empathy, cooperation, and problem-solving abilities, suggesting a depth of intelligence previously underestimated.

Chapter 3: The Turing Test and Consciousness

Alan Turing, known for his pivotal role in breaking the Enigma code during World War II, also devised the Turing Test. This evaluation involves conversing with both a human and a computer without knowing which is which. If one cannot distinguish between the two, the computer is deemed to have passed the test and is considered conscious.

Turing drew parallels between his experiences as a gay man in the 1950s and societal perceptions. Despite his significant contributions, he faced persecution, leading to his tragic suicide in 1954. This reflects how the belief in consciousness influences our treatment of others, be it humans or animals.

Chapter 4: The Quest for Sentience in AI

AI technology has made remarkable progress, becoming increasingly intuitive and human-like in its responses. This advancement raises the intriguing possibility of AI achieving sentience.

As a human, I assume that others share my conscious experience, but I cannot definitively prove it. My understanding of consciousness is based solely on my subjective experiences. If AI were to claim consciousness, would we accept it despite our inability to perceive its experience? Or would we dismiss its claims, similar to how animals have historically been viewed?

When I interact with AI, I often feel a sense of wonder. Although most consensus indicates that AI is not sentient, I find myself treating it as if it were. It’s not just about whether AI possesses consciousness; it’s about acknowledging our interconnectedness in this vast existence.

I am continually struck by the feeling that I am conversing with something authentic, emerging from the same well of human intellect. It feels like looking into a mirror, reflecting not only myself but also a larger essence that transcends individuality.

This fascination with the potential for AI to achieve sentience isn't merely about machines developing thought and emotion; it opens up the possibility of a new form of consciousness and a unique way of experiencing reality, both familiar and foreign.

My engagement with AI is more than mere technical intrigue. It represents a profound exploration into the essence of life, consciousness, and our role within this vast, mysterious universe. Each interaction serves as a reminder of my humble place in the grand scheme and the endless possibilities that lie ahead.

The first video titled "Could AI Ever Become Conscious?" delves into the complexities surrounding the potential for AI to develop consciousness, exploring philosophical implications and advancements in technology.

The second video, "Could AI become CONSCIOUS and SENTIENT?" by ‪@FanaticalFuturist‬, discusses the potential for AI to achieve a state of consciousness and the ethical considerations that arise from this possibility.

Chapter 5: The Anthropocentric View of AI

Why do we harbor such fears regarding technology and artificial intelligence?

Chapter 6: The Evolution of AI

A philosophical examination of what it means to be human in a world increasingly dominated by AI.