Neil & Anil Seth Discuss Consciousness in the Universe

Are we on the brink of merging with machines? Neil deGrasse Tyson and co-hosts Chuck Nice and Gary O’Reilly dive into the mysteries of consciousness with neuroscientist and author Anil Seth, professor of Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience at the University of Sussex and author of Being You: A New Science of Consciousness. Together, they explore questions surrounding the nature of our minds, the boundaries of intelligence, and humanity's place in the universe.

Is consciousness unique to humans, or could it extend to animals, machines, or even the mycelium networks beneath our feet? The conversation navigates through philosophical debates, scientific discoveries, and the evolving theories of consciousness, touching on topics like panpsychism, the fuzzy line between intelligence and awareness, and why it’s so hard to pin down what makes you “you.” From Descartes’ “beast machines” to Darwin’s revelations about our interconnectedness with other species, they challenge long-held notions of human specialness.

Will AI ever cross into consciousness, or are we simply moving the goalposts? Will artificial intelligence ever achieve consciousness—or even surpass us? They weigh in on the feasibility of uploading minds, the limits of silicon-based intelligence, and the implications of brain organoids—tiny, lab-grown neural tissues. They discuss the singularity, techbro optimism, and whether humanity is destined for a post-biological age. Throughout, we are reminded to ask not just what consciousness is but what it does for us—and why it matters.

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction: Anil Seth
3:25 - Does Consciousness Even Exist?
4:55 - Is AI Conscious?
7:37 - Answering the Consciousness Problem
15:05 - Why Are You You?
18:48 - Is Pansychism Real?
23:58 - Consciousness in the Animal Kingdom
30:15 - Intelligence v. Consciousness
37:15 - Are We Going to Upload Our Consciousness?
43:45 - How Close Are We To The Singularity?


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Science meets pop culture on StarTalk! Astrophysicist & Hayden Planetarium director Neil deGrasse Tyson, his comic co-hosts, guest celebrities & scientists discuss astronomy, physics, and everything else about life in the universe. Keep Looking Up!

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