In the "Terminator" franchise, Skynet becomes self-aware at 2:14 a.m., EDT, on August 29, 1997. This has been a recurring theme in pop culture, where these three distinct concepts are often used interchangeably. With the rise of generative AI and the hype surrounding AGI (Artificial General Intelligence), these ideas have become central in discussions about artificial intelligence.
Sentience refers to the capacity to perceive or feel sensations, such as pain or pleasure. Being sentient does not necessarily mean being conscious of these sensations; it simply implies the ability to experience them. Consciousness, on the other hand, is the state of being aware of and able to think about one’s existence, surroundings, and mental states. Humans and some advanced animals share this capability. A step further is self-awareness, where an entity not only recognizes its existence but also identifies itself as distinct from others—like recognizing oneself in a mirror.
Many philosophers and scientists have shaped our understanding of these concepts. René Descartes, John Locke, and the Portuguese neuroscientist Antonio Damasio have made significant contributions to this field. Damasio, in particular, has advanced the neuroscientific exploration of how consciousness arises from the interaction between the brain and body.
The question of whether AGI can become sentient remains a topic of intense debate. While current AI systems simulate aspects of cognition, whether they can genuinely feel, be aware, or recognize themselves as distinct entities is a profound and unresolved challenge.
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