UNLOCKING CONSCIOUSNESS: LESSONS FROM THE CONVERGENCE OF COMPUTING AND COGNITIVE PSYCHOLOGY

by Charles Ross

In order to bridge the gap between artificial and synthetic intelligence, we must first understand our own intelligence. 'What is intelligence?' might appear as a simple question, but many great minds have agreed that there is no singular answer. Unlocking Consciousness attempts to examine this central question through exploring the convergence of computing, philosophy, cognitive neuroscience and biogenetics. The book is the first of its kind to compare comprehensive definitions of both information and intelligence, an essential component to the advancement of computing into the realms of artificial intelligence. In examining explanations for intelligence, consciousness, memory and meaning from the perspective of a computer scientist, it offers routes that can be taken to augment natural and artificial intelligence, improving our own individual abilities, and even considering the potential for creating a prosthetic brain. Unlocking Consciousness demonstrates that understanding intelligence is not just for the benefit of computer scientists, it is also of great value to those working in evolutionary, molecular and systems biology, cognitive neuroscience, genetics and biotechnology. In unlocking the secrets of intelligence and laying out the methods of which information is structured and processed, we can unlock a completely new theory of consciousness.

220 pages, Hardcover

Published April 1, 2018

Reviews

[BCS · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charles T Ross has an impressive CV in computing. In writing this book, he hopes to stimulate the building of better computers, help people to develop their individual abilities and stimulate discussion of the ethical issues – based on evidence. He is an Honorary Fellow of the British Computer Society and Chartered IT Professional Fellow of the Royal Society Arts.

The central question that this book sets out to answer is “What is intelligence?”. The author explores the convergence of computing, philosophy, cognitive neuroscience and biogenetics. It not only addresses ‘what is intelligence' but also discusses such issues of how to measure intelligence, the nature of information, the role of language, what is required of the education system to develop the types of intelligence needed now and in the future and much more. Further, the author discusses consciousness and what makes us sentient beings: essential to understand if computers of the future are to be put to good use as partners to humans.

The premise behind this book is that, to make most progress towards artificial intelligence, there is a need to understand how the brain, mind and body function together in the development of human intelligence. Ross examines the many different perspectives of intelligence that are emerging as understanding develops.

This is an amazingly readable book, providing many insights for anyone interested in the development of artificial intelligence.

The book is supported by extensive online appendices hosted at the Brain Mind Forum.

Review by Sheila Bullas