The quest for artificial general intelligence and the limits of science

The speaker welcomes the audience and introduces the topic of the event, which is the quest for artificial general intelligence and the limits of science. The guest speaker is Professor John Lenx from Oxford University, an emeritus professor of mathematics. The speaker expresses gratitude to the artist for the artistic depiction of the topic and acknowledges the mathematical connection to Norway through the works of Henrik Ab and Sopus Lee. The event will include a presentation of John's books and a Q&A session using a web application for audience questions.

John Lenx is introduced as a distinguished mathematician and philosopher of science. He has written numerous books, some translated into Norwegian. Lenx discusses his early fascination with the works of Neils Ab and his lifelong interest in the limits of science. He explores questions about the universe, human significance, and the role of technology in an advanced technological age. Lenx's motivation is driven by his wife's support, his love for his work, and his old friends' presence at the event.

The conversation shifts to the definitions of narrow and general artificial intelligence (AI). Narrow AI refers to systems that perform specific tasks, while general AI aims to replicate human intelligence across various domains. The speaker discusses the challenges and opportunities in AI development, including the ethical issues and the potential for AI to replace jobs or be used for surveillance. The discussion also touches on the potential for AI to enhance or merge with human biology.

The dialogue delves into the nature of consciousness and whether AI can achieve it. The speaker distinguishes between algorithmic intelligence and human consciousness, emphasizing that AI simulates human intelligence but does not possess it. The conversation references the work of AI pioneers and the philosophical debate on whether certain human cognitive abilities are beyond the reach of AI, based on the Church-Turing thesis.

The discussion addresses transhumanism, the movement that seeks to improve human conditions through technology. The speaker mentions the Oxford Future of Humanity Institute and its leading transhumanist proponents. The conversation explores the potential for technology to eliminate aging and enhance human capacities, as well as the philosophical and ethical questions raised by these pursuits.

The speaker reflects on the theological implications of transhumanism, drawing parallels to ancient Christian concepts of resurrection. He challenges the idea that humans can achieve immortality through technology, citing the resurrection of Jesus Christ as evidence that the problem of physical death has already been addressed. The speaker argues that transhumanist goals can be met through a relationship with God, rather than technological means.

The speaker discusses the relationship between science and faith, suggesting that modern science originated from a belief in a lawgiver who created an orderly universe. He argues that science is powerful because of its limitations and that it does not provide all the answers to life's fundamental questions. The speaker advocates for a holistic approach that includes literature, philosophy, and theology alongside science.

The speaker emphasizes the limited scope of science and its inability to answer profound questions about existence and meaning. He uses the example of boiling water to illustrate that scientific explanations are often incomplete and must be complemented by other types of explanations. The speaker argues against scientism, the belief that science is the only path to truth, and asserts that different disciplines offer different kinds of insights.

The speaker addresses the concept of the singularity, the hypothetical point at which AI surpasses human intelligence. He expresses concern about the potential dangers of AI, including the existential risk it poses to humanity. The speaker discusses the challenges of regulating AI and the ethical considerations that arise from its development, including the potential for AI to replace or enhance human capabilities.

The speaker draws a parallel between the development of AI and the biblical story of the Tower of Babel, both representing human attempts to reach for the divine. He discusses the symbolism of AI's potential to unify language and the philosophical implications of such technological advancements. The speaker also touches on the importance of finding significance through a relationship with God rather than through technological means.

The speaker defends his belief in the resurrection of Jesus Christ, arguing against the notion that it contradicts the laws of nature. He challenges the philosophical stance of David Hume, suggesting that miracles do not violate natural laws but rather demonstrate the possibility of intervention from outside the closed system of cause and effect. The speaker emphasizes the importance of critically investigating the evidence for such claims.