What Is Quantum Computing? Mo Gawdat Explains

An artistic depiction of the inner workings of a quantum computer raise the question, "What is quantum computing?"

What is quantum computing, and how might it impact artificial intelligence? Could this technology revolutionize the way we think about AI? In Scary Smart, Mo Gawdat explores the potential of quantum computing to accelerate AI development. He discusses how quantum computers process information differently from classical computers. This unique approach allows quantum computers to handle more complex problems. Read on to discover Gawdat’s predictions about the future of AI and quantum computing, and learn why some experts disagree with his optimistic outlook.

Steven Pinker’s Critique of Romanticism—With Help From Science

A magnifying glass magnifying the word "ROMANTICISM" illustrates a critique of romanticism

Is human nature inherently good or bad? Are we born altruistic or selfish? In The Blank Slate, Steven Pinker explores the philosophy of romanticism and its impact on our understanding of human nature. He challenges the notion that humans are naturally benevolent and examines the scientific evidence against this view. Read on for a thought-provoking critique of romanticism and its implications for individual and social progress.

Will AI Have Consciousness? Mo Gawdat Explores the Possibility

A human-like robot with shining eyes raises the question, "Will AI have consciousness?"

Will AI have consciousness in the future? How would it compare to human consciousness? Mo Gawdat, author of Scary Smart, dives into the fascinating realm of AI consciousness. He predicts that, as AI systems advance, they’ll gain more than just superintelligence—they might develop awareness of their environment and themselves. Read on for a thought-provoking exploration of AI’s potential for consciousness and what it could mean for our future.

Dualism and Free Will: Where the Connection Fails (Pinker)

A depiction of a human brain illustrates the concepts of dualism and free will

Is there more to the human mind than just physical processes? Could our consciousness be something beyond the material world? In The Blank Slate, Steven Pinker examines the age-old debate about whether our minds are separate from our bodies. Pinker challenges the traditional view that connects dualism and free will, and he presents scientific evidence to back up his argument. Read on to get into this thought-provoking exploration of consciousness, free will, and the nature of the human mind.

Will AI Have Emotions? Mo Gawdat Explores the Potential

Two human-like robots with smiles and bright eyes raise the question, "Will AI have emotions?"

Are you ready for a world where machines have feelings? Will AI have emotions at some point in the future? In Scary Smart, Mo Gawdat explores the fascinating possibility of AI developing emotions and other human-like traits. He argues that, as AI becomes more intelligent, it may acquire the ability to feel, express emotions, and even develop an instinct for self-preservation. Continue reading to learn about the prospect of emotional AI.

Is AI Smarter Than Humans? Mo Gawdat Says It Will Be

A human woman and an AI robot looking at each other raises the question, "Is AI smarter than humans?"

Is AI smarter than humans, or will it be at some point? How will artificial intelligence compare to human brainpower in the coming years? In Scary Smart, Mo Gawdat explores the rapid advancement of AI and its potential to surpass human intelligence. He delves into the concepts of artificial general intelligence and quantum computing, painting a picture of a world where machines think faster and more efficiently than we do. Keep reading to learn about the prospects of artificial intelligence.

3 Mental Representations Our Brains Use (Steven Pinker)

A man imagining a green apple (in a thought bubble over his head) illustrates mental representations

How do our brains represent the world around us? How accurate are these mental representations? In The Blank Slate, Steven Pinker argues that the mainstream view of human nature is false. Then, he seeks to replace it by showing that science establishes an alternative conception of human nature. The first component of the scientific view of human nature is accurate mental representations. Read more to understand why Pinker believes our brains have evolved to use categories, languages, and images to accurately represent the world.

Why Is AI Scary? 3 Reasons to Sound the Alarm (Mo Gawdat)

Shadowy silhouettes of humans behind a sophisticated and ominous AI robot raises the question, "Why is AI scary?"

Why is AI scary? Should it be? Do you know how it might impact the world and your life? In Scary Smart, author Mo Gawdat explores the potential outcomes of superintelligent AI. He discusses three main problems we may face: misuse by bad actors, unintended consequences from mistakes, and a shift in how we value human contributions. Read on to discover Gawdat’s insights and learn why AI’s rapid advancement is both exciting and concerning.

Are Male and Female Brains Different? Steven Pinker Weighs In

An artistic depiction of a male brain and a female brain illustrate the question, Are male and female brains different?

Are male and female brains different? How does this impact our understanding of gender roles in society? In The Blank Slate, Steven Pinker explores the scientific view of human nature and its implications for gender differences. He argues that genetics play a role in shaping cognitive disparities between men and women, challenging the idea that socialization alone determines these differences. Keep reading for Pinker’s thought-provoking analysis, and discover how science sheds light on an age-old question.

Can AI Be Controlled or Contained? 3 Reasons It’s Too Late

A sophisticated AI robot breaking through a wall raises the question, "Can AI be controlled?"

Are you worried about the future of AI? Have you ever wondered if we could simply stop its development? Can AI be controlled or contained? In Scary Smart, author Mo Gawdat explores why halting AI’s progress is no longer possible. He explains that we’ve reached a point of no return, where superintelligent AI will become an independent, thinking entity beyond our control. Keep reading to discover the three reasons why AI can’t be contained or controlled.