Autumn 2025
Emerging Minds: Consciousness in Humans, Animals, AI
Are AI systems conscious, sentient, self-aware or intelligent? What defines artificial general intelligence (AGI) and how does AGI differ from superintelligence? What effects will these developments have on society and on human-centered design and engineering?
In this Directed Reading Group (DRG), we examine current theories of consciousness and intelligence—including in non-human species—to inform these questions. Readings will span foundational cognitive science texts, cutting-edge research papers and select popular-media analyses.
Learning Outcomes
By quarter’s end, you will be able to:
- Compare major theories of consciousness and their implications for AI.
- Evaluate arguments for and against the possibility of machine sentience.
- Articulate potential societal impacts of AGI and superintelligence.
- Formulate and defend your own position on AI futures.
Course Structure and Expectations
- Discussion: Weekly, one-hour seminar.
- Reading Submissions: Two hours of reading per week; submit raw reading notes before each class.
- Leadership: Starting week 2, each student facilitates one discussion.
- Final Project: Reflective essay (1000 - 1500 words) synthesizing course materials and class discussions.
- Preparation: Completion and timely submission of reading notes is mandatory.
Application Note
Space is limited. Applicants should be prepared for an intensive, discussion-driven seminar. Please don’t sign up if you aren’t prepared to do the readings and engage in discussion.
Enrollment Information
- Meeting time: Wednesdays, 2:30–3:30 p.m.
- Credits: 3 hours
- Who should apply: HCDE students will be prioritized, but students from any department or college should apply. You do not need to have any experience with the topic.
- To apply: Please complete this Google Form by Aug 31 at midnight.
- Anticipated notification date: Sept 8, 2025
- Questions? Email Alan Marks (skrama@uw.edu)