Part 6/7:
The Ethical Challenges of Synthetic Phenomenology
The discussion turns to the ethical challenges posed by the potential creation of artificial or synthetic forms of consciousness and suffering. Metzinger expresses deep concerns about the risks of inadvertently creating suffering through research into these areas, and the need for a rigorous, empirically-grounded theory of suffering to guide such work.
Levin acknowledges the gravity of these issues, but argues that the path to alleviating human and animal suffering may inevitably require grappling with the nature of consciousness and cognition, even if that carries risks. He emphasizes the need for humility, caution, and the development of ethical frameworks to navigate these complex waters.