Age of Empires II’s goats used as AI building blocks to build a neural network — goaty experiment mocks the idea of chatbot consciousness, Microsoft AI researcher’s project makes an absurdist point about AI consciousness - Tom's Hardware
A Microsoft AI researcher used goats from Age of Empires II to build a neural network, making a point about AI consciousness. This unusual project highlights the complexities of creating conscious AI systems.
What happened
The researcher used the game's goats as a basis for building blocks in a neural network, essentially treating them as individual components. This experiment was designed to mock the idea of chatbot consciousness, showing how seemingly simple elements can be used to create complex systems. The project's goal was to demonstrate the limitations of current AI systems.
Why it matters
As a business owner, you may be interested in AI and its potential applications, but it's essential to understand the current state of AI development. This project shows that true consciousness in AI is still a distant goal, and current systems are more complex tools than truly intelligent beings. This distinction is crucial when considering the role of AI in your business operations.
The takeaway
When evaluating AI solutions for your business, remember that current AI systems are sophisticated tools, but they lack true consciousness and decision-making capabilities. Keep a clear understanding of their limitations to make informed decisions about their deployment.
Our plain-English take, written from public reporting for operational business owners. Always read the original for full context.
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