From: J. R. Molloy (jr@shasta.com)
Date: Sun Jan 20 2002 - 16:04:18 MST
From: "John Clark" <jonkc@worldnet.att.net>
> So sentience exists but consciousness does not. Huh?
They are two discrete phenomena. That's why there is a separate word for
each.
Sentience pertains to the senses. Consciousness is a useless hypothesis.
> One of the most important things people use their brains for is
> in predicting the behavior of our fellow human beings, I like to see
> you try that if you don't assume they are conscious.
No problem, I assume they are sentient and intelligent. That suffices.
> Do you really believe that?
No, I just accept it. It's part of reality.
--- --- --- --- ---
Useless hypotheses, etc.:
consciousness, phlogiston, philosophy, vitalism, mind, free will, qualia,
analog computing, cultural relativism, GAC, Cyc, Eliza, cryonics, individual
uniqueness, ego, human values, scientific relinquishment, malevolent AI,
non-sensory experience, SETI
We move into a better future in proportion as the scientific method
accurately identifies incorrect thinking.
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