The Book of Minds: Understanding Ourselves and Other Beings, From Animals to Aliens

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Understanding the human mind and its relation to our experiences has long been a philosophical challenge. How do we approach 'minds' that are not human? Recent scientific advancements have explored the properties of mind across various fields, including zoology, astrobiology, computer science, and neuroscience. Taking a broad view, the author examines minds in plants, aliens, and even God, unifying these multidisciplinary insights to explore the types of minds that might exist in the universe. He argues for a shift away from using the human mind as the standard for all minds, advocating for a consideration of the 'space of possible minds.' By mapping out the properties of mind without prioritizing the human experience, he sheds light on critical questions, such as the moral rights of animals, the implications of AI, and the potential for communication with intelligent aliens. This exploration also addresses profound scientific inquiries about thought, consciousness, and free will. As we learn about the minds of various creatures, from octopuses to chimpanzees, and envision the minds of computers and extraterrestrial intelligences, we gain a broader perspective on our own minds. This ambitious work expands our understanding of the nature and existence of minds, ultimately helping us to better comprehend our own.