Data V

"Suppose non-conscious algorithms could eventually outperform conscious intelligence in all known data-processing tasks - what, if anything, would be lost by replacing conscious intelligence with superior non-conscious algorithms?" (Harari, p.459)

If this question means, "What would be lost if human beings allowed all their data to be processed by unconscious algorithms?," then the answer is, "Nothing," whereas, if the question means, "What would be lost if all conscious beings were replaced by unconscious algorithms?" then the answer is, "Consciousness."

However, if artificial neurons eventually duplicate the functions of organic neurons, then they will generate artificial consciousness. It is artificial neural networks that preserve conscious human memories and personalities in Poul Anderson's Harvest Of Stars and Genesis. Will it be possible to combine this kind of post-organic consciousness with superior algorithms?