An Analysis and Criticism of Mind Transfer
Abstract
In this article, I examine a futuristic but not unimaginable optional opportunity of immortality – mind transfer – which has a strong connection with neuroscience, computer science, cognitive research, artificial intelligence and finally philosophy. I analyse this promising procedure from different points of view, such as regarding the potential difficulties of human transformation and the confusing issue of consciousness. The methodologies of mapping and scanning the human brain demonstrate contemporary technologies’ capabilities, but their limitations are apparent, too. I find that using mind transfer to ensure
or give humans the opportunity to extend their lifespan is not possible with the current level of knowledge and technology. I prove this through an analysis of a thought experiment and examine the differences between the person and the uploaded copy of it, making clear why mind transfer seems to be an impossible challenge right now. Although the use of AI provides great opportunities to support and improve humanity, we can conclude that its usage within present methodologies and technologies is neither sufficient to achieve eternal life nor remove the limitations of time. With the mind transfer procedure, we can preserve information only about humanity and not the essence that makes it unique.
Keywords:
Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition, Artificial Intelligence mind transfer, consciousness, human transformation, paradigm shift, ethicsReferences
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Authors
Beáta Lakihttps://orcid.org/0000-0002-6348-8483
PhD in philosophy, senior lecturer at the Department of Behavioral Sciences of the University of Pécs, Hungary
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