Becoming Artificial: A Philosophical Exploration Into Artificial Intelligence and What It Means to Be Human

Becoming Artificial is a collection of essays about the nature of humanity, technology, artifice, and the irreducible connections between them.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) was once the stuff of pure fantasy. Ideas about machines that could think seemed as plausible as space travel or inexpensive communication technology. The last two decades have introduced a number of game-changing innovations that make discussion of AI no longer a mere armchair speculation, but rather a serious topic of debate for everyone who will be affected, from policy makers to an increasingly displaced workforce. The growth in power of AI algorithms and systems has sparked many thought-provoking questions: Is there something fundamental to being human or are humans simply biological computers? Will AI continue to assist us or eventually enslave us? Can self-driving cars be legally responsible for their actions? And most importantly, how can we chart a path for AI that ensures a humane and beneficial future for society?

Danial Sonik is a Project Manager in Finance IT who is fascinated with questions that lie at the intersection of philosophy, psychology, and technology. He received his Masters in Philosophy from Brock University, his Bachelors in Philosophy from the University of Western Ontario with a concentration in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, and most recently a Computer Engineering Technician Diploma from Sheridan College. He is also a licenced commercial pilot. He enjoys learning new languages (Hablo Espanol!), tinkering with technology to make the world better, and playing with his cat, Oscar.

Alessandro is an accomplished IT professional, having spent over a decade in virtually every facet of technology, from support and web design to cartoon animation and game development. He is currently employed as a technical consultant at a large firm in Toronto, Canada. He has a diploma in Systems Analysis from Sheridan College and a philosophy degree from York University with a concentration in AI. Alessandro is a frequent contributor in Philosophy Now Magazine and has been published in York University's philosophical review. In his spare time, Alessandro enjoys spending time outdoors with his family or playing drums in one of his many jazz bands.