Exploring the Boundaries of Mind Replacement via Artificial Intelligence

Many debates rage in the world of science and technology surrounding the possibility of replacing the human mind with artificial intelligence (AI). Some enthusiasts believe it is theoretically possible, but from a philosophical and scientific perspective, this notion poses significant limitations. This article explores the boundaries and limitations of such a proposition.

Understanding the Human Mind

Let's start by defining the human mind. In a physical sense, the mind can be viewed as the information state of the brain, akin to a data file or a computer program. When discussing the possibility of transferring or uploading consciousness, it's crucial to understand that this raises profound questions about the nature of consciousness itself.

Consciousness and Its Nature

Consciousness is a complex and multi-faceted aspect of the human experience. It encompasses perceptions, emotions, memories, ideas, thoughts, knowledge, skills, intentions, and desires. All of these experiences are strictly subjective and personal, making them immeasurable and unrecordable using current physical tools.

Neuroscience and Consciousness

While neuroimaging techniques have advanced significantly, they still fall short in objectifying or projecting the subjective experiences of the mind. The mind is often likened to a black box, where the inputs, stimuli, information, and outputs can be observed, but the internal workings remain a mystery. This applies to both classical and quantum interpretations of the mind.

Artificial Intelligence and the Black Box Model

In artificial intelligence, a black box model relies on machine learning (ML) algorithms to make predictions or generate outputs. However, the explanation for these predictions or generations remains unknown and untraceable. This inherent mystery underscores the limitations of AI in replicating the nuanced nature of the human mind.

Theological and Philosophical Perspectives

From a theological and philosophical standpoint, consciousness and the mind are attributed to a higher, absolute being. Some call this the Absolute or God. These perspectives suggest that while advanced technology like AI may simulate humanlike responses, the actual consciousness or soul is beyond the reach of technology.

The Limitations of Consciousness Transfer

Consciousness transfer or mind uploading, often referred to as mind filing or whole brain simulation, is increasingly being discussed in the context of achieving strong AI or superintelligence, or even digital immortality. However, such concepts are pseudoscience, non-science, or alchemy. The subjective reality of the mind is a singular, un replicable property, making it impossible to objectify, project, replicate, or simulate, regardless of whether it pertains to intelligence, learning, willing, or whole consciousness.

Therefore, while computer-based intelligence can model, simulate, and interpret the objective reality of the world, it cannot emulate the subjective reality of the human mind. The mind is inherently a product of the absolute, beyond the control of human technology.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the replacement of the human mind with artificial intelligence faces significant philosophical and scientific limitations. While AI can simulate and model aspects of human experience, it cannot achieve true consciousness or replace the subjective reality of the mind.