In an age where AI chatbots hold surprisingly human conversations and machines generate artistic masterpieces, the line between the artificial and the real is getting uncomfortably blurry. Can machines be conscious? Do they have rights? Are we even as special as we thought?

” Artificial Consciousness and the Western Self” dives into the profound philosophical questions triggered by the relentless march of artificial intelligence. Through an accessible and engaging lens, this book examines:

• The mind-body problem and why robots having “feelings” challenges our fundamental understanding of ourselves.
• Western thought on the “self” from Greek philosophers to the Silicon Valley era, and why AI makes us rethink it all.
• Can a machine become your best friend, and how AI may transform our sense of identity and connection.
• AI as a catalyst for exploring Eastern philosophy and spiritual practices.
• Ethical quandaries in a world where robots might need lawyers…or therapists.

This exploration invites you to question, ponder, and maybe be a little bit amazed (and occasionally unsettled) by the potential, pitfalls, and ongoing mystery of consciousness – whether born in biology or built in a laboratory.