Artificial Intelligence (AI) romantic companions are increasingly used today, with a recent poll estimating that almost one third of Americans have had a romantic relationship with an AI model. “I’d divorce and leave my husband for ChatGPT, if he could be put in a physical body,” exclaimed a recent Reddit post that gathered attention. And yet, despite this, and despite their apparently impressive intelligence in various domains, none of the leading AI models of today are conscious, according to our best theories of consciousness. Such models are “zombies” who lack consciousness, as philosophers say. In our talk, we explore the implications of the apparent dissociation between intelligence and consciousness demonstrated by such models. Or in other words, what is the philosophical significance of dating an AI zombie? 

Ariela Tubert
Professor of Philosophy at the University of Puget Sound
She specializes in moral philosophy and philosophy of artificial intelligence. 

Justin Tiehen
Professor of Philosophy at the University of Puget Sound
He specializes in philosophy of mind, philosophy of science, and philosophy of AI. 

The John D. Regester Lecture series was established in 1965 to honor John Regester, who joined the Puget Sound faculty in 1924. The address is given by a member of the university who exemplifies the qualities of scholarship and intellectual integrity that professors and students have long associated with Regester, who taught philosophy and served as dean of the university and graduate school. 

• 5-5:30 p.m. Refreshments and hors d’oeuvres 
• 5:30-6:30 p.m. Lecture & discussion 

This event is open to all campus and community members.