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Where to find this in the Library
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You may access the physical version of this item by going to the Reading Room Reference Desk. Please provide the library staff with either the title and location of this item or the item's catalog call number.
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Identifier
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JML.SphexClub_Gillette_20260319
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Title
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A Sidekick with a Gambling Problem
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Description
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Text of a lecture delivered to the Sphex Club on March 19, 2026. Michael A. Gillette explores whether artificial intelligence can truly think or even become conscious. After explaining how AI systems use deep learning and probabilistic pattern recognition, he argues that current AI lacks intention, creativity, and self-awareness despite its impressive conversational abilities. Drawing on Alan Turing, John Searle, and theories of consciousness, Gillette examines whether consciousness depends on information integration, self-reflection, learning, and subjective perception. He proposes “graduated pluri-psychism,” the idea that consciousness exists on a continuum across living organisms and perhaps advanced machines. Examples from plant learning experiments and AI behavior support his argument that rudimentary consciousness may emerge from complex information processing. He concludes by discussing AI-generated creativity and experiments in which AI models developed irrational gambling behaviors, suggesting that subjective biases and internal perspectives may indicate the earliest forms of machine consciousness and moral standing.
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Date
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19 March 2026
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topic
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artificial intelligence, consciousness, Alan Turing, John Searle, Turing Test, deep learning, artificial neural networks, large language models, machine consciousness, Integrated Information Theory, Global Neuronal Workspace Theory, Higher Order Theories, predictive processing, panpsychism, graduated pluri-psychism, AI ethics, gambling addiction, machine learning, self-awareness, philosophy of mind
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Location
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Lynchburg, Virginia
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Digital Format
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pdf
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Language
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English
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Publisher
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Sphex Club (Lynchburg, Va.)
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Repository
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George M. Jones Library Association
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Rights
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Gillette, Michael A.
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George M. Jones Library Association
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Rights Holder
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George M. Jones Library Association