Convergence: Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Computing

CHAPTER 19The Ascent of Quantum Intelligence in Steiner's Age of the Consciousness Soul

Stephen R. Waite, Author and Adjunct Scholar, Quantum Alliance Initiative, Hudson Institute

When thinking about quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and the technological landscape of the future, many scientists and futurists express genuine concern about machines overtaking humanity. Just the other day, a YouTube video popped up on the screen with the title Will A.I. Kill Us, with a discussion of this question by Dr. Ben Goertzel. Screenwriters in Hollywood have penned many scripts with powerful AI machines posing a grave threat to humanity.

In considering the potential societal and economic impacts of quantum computers and AI of the future, it is necessary to consider the state of consciousness of humanity. Conventional science doesn't have much to say about the subject of consciousness today, but I believe it is vital to the future of humanity and is worthy of investigation.

Consciousness is the great mystery of science. In his book, The Quantum Revelation, Paul Levy notes that physics is encountering consciousness and is only in the beginning stages of consciously realizing it. In essence, says Levy, consciousness has entered into the physics laboratory, and physicists are not quite sure what to make of this turn of events. Levy goes on to state that most physicists think that something as ethereal as consciousness has no place in “real” physics.

The father of quantum mechanics, ...