On theories of sentience: a talk with Magnus Vinding

Abstract

This conversation explores the concept of sentience, its moral relevance, and the varying perspectives on its nature and origins. Sentience, defined as the capacity for experiencing suffering and enjoyment, is posited as the primary factor for moral consideration, superseding other potential values like beauty or complexity, which hold merely instrumental value. The discussion delves into the differing views on consciousness among researchers focused on suffering reduction, contrasting realist and non-realist (eliminativist) perspectives. Non-realists, inspired by figures like Brian Tomasik, question the existence of consciousness as a distinct category, while realists like David Pearce propose a physicalist understanding of consciousness. The conversation further analyzes functionalist and non-functionalist accounts of consciousness, noting their implications for understanding suffering and its potential eradication. While acknowledging diverse viewpoints, the participants agree on the importance of open exploration of future risks, cooperative engagement, and expanding the moral circle. The conversation also touches upon the potential for defeating suffering, emphasizing the importance of focusing on its reduction as the primary goal. – AI-generated abstract.