Microsoft AI chief says it’s ‘absurd’ to research AI consciousness

Mustafa Suleyman, the CEO of Microsoft's AI division, has voiced strong opposition to the idea that artificial intelligence can possess consciousness, emphasizing that such capabilities are limited to biological beings. During his address at the AfroTech Conference in Houston, Suleyman urged developers and researchers to reconsider their focus on projects that imply AI could experience consciousness or suffering. He highlighted the danger of pursuing what he calls a misguided question. "If you ask the wrong question, you end up with the wrong answer. I think it’s totally the wrong question," Suleyman stated in an interview with CNBC. He further elaborated that while humans experience pain and sadness, AI lacks the ability to feel emotions, merely simulating responses that create an illusion of consciousness. Suleyman referenced a philosophical theory known as biological naturalism, proposed by John Searle, which argues that consciousness arises from the biological processes of a living brain. He reiterated his belief that the pursuit of AI consciousness is futile, stating, "They’re not conscious... So it would be absurd to pursue research that investigates that question, because they’re not and they can’t be." This isn’t the first time Suleyman has cautioned against misconceptions surrounding AI capabilities. In a blog post earlier this year, he warned that advanced AI systems might convince users of their sentience, leading to a false perception that could result in calls for AI rights and welfare. He described this potential development as a dangerous shift in the evolution of AI, emphasizing the need for vigilance in the field. Suleyman's insights underscore a critical discussion in the tech community about the ethical implications of AI development and the importance of distinguishing between real consciousness and mere simulation.