Agents: Natural and Artificial

Keynote speaker: Hong-Yu Wong, Professor, Chair of Philosophy of Mind and Cognitive Science. Head, CIN Philosophy of Neuroscience Group. University of Tübingen

Humans are considered agents par excellence. We exhibit goal-directed behavior and a significant degree of autonomy. However, mechanistic approaches suggest these may be only appearances: are humans and other animals just complicated machines or is biological agency genuine?

More recently, AI platforms are routinely described as “agents” in ways that seem similar to what humans exhibit despite key differences in how this is implemented. What is an artificial agent? What is a natural or biological agent? How are they similar or different?

This roundtable dinner invites participants to engage in a conversation on these themes, prompted by Hong-Yu Wong on the topic. All are welcome, but space is limited. Registration is required.

Co-hosts:

• Minnesota Center for Philosophy of Science (MCPS)
• Consortium for Advancing a Science of Purpose (CASP)
• AI Hub
• Center for Faith & Learning, Anselm House