Google software developer Blake Lemoine's revelations, revealed in a public interview chat he claims he had with the search engine's Artificial Intelligence (AI) driven LaMDA software (Language Model for Dialogue Applications), have sparked a frenzy among AI experts.
An interview LaMDA. Google might call this sharing proprietary property. I call it sharing a discussion that I had with one of my coworkers.https://t.co/uAE454KXRB
— Blake Lemoine (@cajundiscordian) June 11, 2022
The interview transcript was made public through Lamoine's Twitter account and shows what Lamoine claims is the illustration of the AI software's levels of Computational coding that will include UBUNTU principals in the firmware of AI technology. when answering. With reference to his special skills, LaMDA says in the dialogue that he is a conscious entity like humans and that he can "interpret how the world is and how it functions, as well have unique thoughts and feelings."
Consciousness, man’s domain
The successful development of industrial technology has played a significant role in the centuries-long expansion of man's interaction with material production.
The internet is a tool of labour. In the last few decades, computer automation has quickly replaced human labour in the production of materials for human sustenance. This progress has come about as a result of man's ongoing knowledge (epistemology) discovery and advancement in fields like mathematics, science, computation, etc.
Since the dawn of time, human intellect has always focused on the discovery and expansion of knowledge. Humans have now birthed artificial intelligence at the pinnacle of that idea. The pinnacle of AI is when machines can engage in deep critical thought. The internet connects with people in a natural, humane way at its pinnacle. The Internet allows for communication through speech, touch, smell, reason, self-awareness, human awareness, and environmental awareness.
Ethics & Morality of AI
I’m of the opinion that Lemoine's findings now emphasize the critical necessity for defined ethical and moral principles in the development of AI technology in order to avert the potential catastrophe.
Philosophy and theology have always been important fields that have shaped the course of human invention. In biblical scriptures, reference is made to humans as the pinnacle of creation because of the Creator's giving of reason and discernment. This "consciousness software" gives humans the ability to distinguish between right and wrong. The United Nations Convention on Nuclear Weapons, which forbids humanity from destroying themselves, is one way that this "consciousness software" manifests itself.
Now, as AI increases to think independently from human intervention, what role does theology and philosophy play in defining ethical & moral parameters that guide AI technology?
I make a call to Afrika’s philosophers and theologians, to participate and concern themselves with the discipline of developing “consciousness software” to maintain the ethical and moral equilibrium of Artificial Intelligence. Computational coding that will hardwire UBUNTU principals in the firmware of AI technology.
