Susan Schneider is the Distinguished Scholar at the Library of Congress and the director of the AI, Mind and Society Group at the University of Connecticut. Her work has been featured by the New York Times, Scientific American, Smithsonian, Fox TV, History Channel, and more. Her two-year NASA project explored superintelligent AI. Previously, she was at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton devising tests for AI consciousness. Her books include The Language of Thought, The Blackwell Companion to Consciousness, and Science Fiction and Philosophy.
[A] demanding dialogue between philosophy and science. ---Andrew Robinson, Nature One of Forbes' Must-Read Brain Books of 2019 This is a fun, provocative, thoughtful and interesting book to read. . . . As we rush, almost unthinkingly into an AI enhanced world this is a book that is well worth reading. ---Simon Cocking, Irish Tech News Packed with material that enlightens new ways of thinking about a hot topic. . . . a philosophical tour with real-world implications and it'll appeal most to readers who enjoy playing out scenarios. . . . One of the benefits of learning about AI is better understanding the human mind, and this book-while challenging-offers an accessible, enjoyable intro for both. ---David DiSalvo, Forbes Finalist for the PROSE Award in Philosophy, Association of American Publishers [A] well-reasoned and thoughtful discussion about the need for AI researchers and policymakers to place more emphasis on the question of consciousness. ---Martin De Saulles, Times Higher Education This book is a delight to read. Deeply satisfying: a double prolonged plea for humility as we explore questions [of AI and the nature of consciousness]. A stimulating and accessible blend of neuroethical speculation and provocation, all deriving from a deeply felt moral mission. In short, highly recommend. ---John Banja, AJOB Neuroscience Schneider is a sure-footed and witty guide to slippery ethical terrain. Her exposition of the consciousness problem is laced with helpful examples. It pries clarity from the essential opacity of its central concepts, most important consciousness itself. And it is refreshingly candid. ---Aziz Huq, Washington Post