Research Examines AI and Human Consciousness

Recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and biotechnology are reshaping our understanding of consciousness and learning. Researchers at the University of Bern propose a 'Human-AI Deal' to regulate the rights of conscious machines, suggesting that while AI could achieve consciousness, it should prioritize human rights to prevent suffering. This concept aligns with the growing belief that consciousness exists on a spectrum, where both humans and AI can occupy different points, reflecting a symbiotic evolution in intelligence. AI models currently mimic human neural processing but lack the depth of human episodic memory, limiting their ability to handle complex queries. Historical timelines of AI development reveal significant milestones, from the early work of McCulloch and Pitts to modern reinforcement learning models. These discussions underscore a transformative moment in technology, where the lines between human and machine cognition increasingly blur.