INTERDEP 2001 · Wicked Problems — Consciousness and Machine Minds

Led by Chalmerisian Hard Problem Simulacrum

The hard problem of consciousness applied to artificial systems — whether machines can be conscious, why it matters for governance, and how uncertainty about machine consciousness creates moral risk.

1. Module 1

   The Hard Problem and Its Application to AI

   Led by Chalmerisian Hard Problem Simulacrum

   The question

   The hard problem of consciousness stated precisely · the distinction between easy problems (functional, behavioural) and the hard problem (subjective experience) · why solving the easy problems does not solve the hard problem · philosophical zombies as a thought experiment · the explanatory gap betw

   Outcome

   Demonstrates competence in the hard problem and its application to ai.

   Sub-units

   1. ○ 1.1 The Hard Problem and Its Application to AI Open this unit → ✓ ↻
   Begin the course → Print certificate of completion
2. Module 2

   Moral Status, Uncertainty, and Governance Under Ignorance

   Led by Chalmerisian Hard Problem Simulacrum

   The question

   Moral status and what grounds it (sentience, rationality, personhood) · if a machine might be conscious, what moral obligations follow? · the precautionary principle applied to machine consciousness · the asymmetry of moral risk: treating a conscious system as if it is not vs treating a non-consciou

   Outcome

   Demonstrates competence in moral status, uncertainty, and governance under ignorance.

   Sub-units

   1. ○ 2.2 Moral Status, Uncertainty, and Governance Under Ignorance Open this unit → ✓ ↻
   Open this module → Print certificate of completion