72: Human-AI Relationships | Exploring Consciousness in 'After Yang'

Summary:What does it mean for an AI to have consciousness? In this episode, Anastassia and Professor Rae Muhlstock explore artificial intelligence through the lens of film and fiction, unpacking how stories like 'After Yang' teach us about identity, personhood, and what makes us human. A philosophically rich yet accessible deep dive into AI ethics and consciousness—perfect for curious minds of any age.Key topics:AI portrayal in fictionConsciousness and AIHuman-AI relationshipsScience fiction as a tool for exploring AIEthics and identity in AI storiesChapters:00:00 Introduction to why portrayals of AI in fiction (books and movies) matter02:43 Exploring 'Saying Goodbye to Yang'05:19 The Prophetic Nature of Science Fiction07:42 Understanding AI Through Literature10:29 The Complexity of Grief and AI13:23 Narrative Structure and Emotional Depth15:54 Consciousness and AI: A Philosophical Debate18:16 The Shift in Perspective: From 'It' to 'He'20:51 The Interplay of Human and AI Memories23:42 Art, Emotion, and the Limitations of AI26:12 The Importance of Understanding AI28:33 Future Explorations in AI Literature31:23 The Role of Summarization in Understanding Art33:37 Closing Thoughts and the 2026 AI Literacy ProjectResources:After Yang / Children of the New World by Alexander WeinsteinRae Muhlstock’s LinkedInAnastassia Lauterbach - LinkedInFirst Public Reading, Romy, Roby and the Secrets of Sleep (1/3)First Public Reading, Romy, Roby and the Secrets of Sleep (2/3)First Public Reading, Romy, Roby and the Secrets of Sleep (3/3)AI Snacks with Romy and Roby@romyandroby“Leading Through Disruption”AI EdutainmentThe AI Imperative BookRomy & Roby BookSubstack