#45 Sean Walsh: The Hard Problem of Consciousness, AI, and Conservatism

Sean has a PhD in the philosophy of artificial intelligence. He writes well and thinks deeply. He's also experienced more grit than the average academic. 

This was not a light discussion, but I think you will find it well worth your time.

Articles mentioned:

Wandering Thoughts

Artificial, human and angelic intelligence

 

Sean is Associate Editor of Country Squire Magazine

 

AI summary:

Exploring Consciousness and AI: A Deep Dive with Sean Walsh In this thought-provoking episode of Concepts, host Shawn Whatley engages in a rich conversation with Sean Walsh, Associate Editor of Country Squire Magazine.

With a background in philosophy of artificial intelligence, Sean Walsh shares his intriguing journey from a university teacher and police officer to a profound thinker and writer.

The discussion delves into the philosophy of walking, the deep mysteries of consciousness, and the intricate overlaps between AI and political philosophy. Walsh's brutal honesty and deep insights provide a fresh perspective on the limitations of AI, the metaphysics of self-consciousness, and the significance of embodiment.

This episode also explores the role of conservatism and liberalism in understanding these complex topics. A must-watch for anyone interested in philosophy, AI, and the fundamental questions of human existence.

00:00 The Miracle of Human Consciousness

00:24 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

01:38 Sean Walsh's Background and Role at Country Squire Magazine

07:18 Exploring the Philosophy of Walking

23:24 The Intersection of AI and Philosophy

26:56 The Incoherence of Limited Materialism

27:57 The Ethics of AI and Transhumanism

28:53 Angels as a Metaphor for Self-Consciousness

29:17 The Impossibility of Creating Conscious Machines

29:48 The Limits of AI and Human Intelligence

36:55 The Chinese Room Argument and AI Limitations

39:13 Conservatism vs. Liberalism in AI and Consciousness

48:21 The Role of Law and National Identity

50:20 The Search for Meaning in a Technological World

52:56 Concluding Thoughts and Future Discussions