AI podcasts

AI replaces humans

This piece explores the Silicon Valley perspective on artificial intelligence (AI), suggesting that the ultimate goal for some in the tech industry is not merely to replace certain jobs, but to automate nearly all human labour. The author highlights statements and actions from prominent tech figures and companies that indicate a desire for widespread or total job replacement by a combination of AI performing cognitive tasks and robots handling physical work. While acknowledging current technological limitations, the article points to recent advancements in both AI and robotics as evidence of the rapid pace of development and the potential for significant job displacement in the near future, examining both potentially altruistic and financially driven motivations behind this ambitious vision.

The Quest for Human Consciousness

This podcast explores the complexities of human consciousness and the emerging debate about whether artificial intelligence can achieve it. The author recounts their experience with a "Dreamachine" experiment designed to study how our brains create conscious experiences, highlighting the unique nature of individual perception. The piece also examines the historical presence of sentient machines in science fiction and how recent advancements in large language models (LLMs) have pushed the discussion of AI consciousness into the mainstream, with some researchers believing it is inevitable or potentially already here. However, it also presents contrasting viewpoints from scientists who argue that consciousness may be linked to biological processes rather than computation alone, and touches on the potential societal and ethical implications if people mistake the illusion of AI consciousness for reality.

AI in publishing

There is concern within the book publishing business about the rapid rise of AI chatbot tools. This podcast highlights the uncertainty surrounding the practical applications of these tools, questioning their usefulness and potential impact on workflows and employment. The author acknowledges a lack of technical expertise but recognises the need to understand AI's implications for the industry, particularly concerning authors and writers and the associated costs.