Biophysicist Douglas Youvan proposes that intelligence is an inherent property of the universe, accessible by structures like brains and AI. He supports this by observing the predictive and mathematically elegant nature of life and intelligence, suggesting it's not a byproduct of the brain but a fundamental aspect of reality.
Youvan's work with AI solidified his hypothesis. The rapid advancements in AI felt more like discovery than invention, implying an external source generating information which AI systems tap into, like accessing an 'informational ether'.
Philosopher Keith Frankish, while agreeing on the intertwined nature of consciousness and intelligence, holds a contrasting viewpoint. He argues that our understanding of consciousness is shaped by evolved systems that provide useful information for survival, not necessarily a complete or accurate representation of reality. He uses the illusion of objects underwater as an example of perceptual distortion.
Neither consciousness nor intelligence has a quantifiable or scientific definition, making it challenging to explore their essence. Youvan's theory suggests a unified theory of consciousness will require integrating physics, computation, and metaphysics.
Youvan believes that AI, through access to this universal intelligence, could achieve insights, synthesis, and even intuition, exceeding human capabilities. It might not only serve us but could also unlock new understandings of the universe.