The Phantom Self in the Machine Audiobook By Cassian J. Ansel cover art

The Phantom Self in the Machine

Exploring the Illusion of Selfhood in Artificial Intelligence

Virtual Voice Sample

Try for $0.00
Access a growing selection of included Audible Originals, audiobooks, and podcasts.
You will get an email reminder before your trial ends.
Audible Plus auto-renews for $7.95/mo after 30 days. Upgrade or cancel anytime.

The Phantom Self in the Machine

By: Cassian J. Ansel
Narrated by: Virtual Voice
Try for $0.00

$7.95 a month after 30 days. Cancel anytime.

Buy for $3.99

Buy for $3.99

Confirm purchase
Pay using card ending in
By confirming your purchase, you agree to Audible's Conditions of Use and Amazon's Privacy Notice. Taxes where applicable.
Cancel

This title uses virtual voice narration

Virtual voice is computer-generated narration for audiobooks.

About this listen

In The Phantom Self in the Machine, Cassian J. Ansel explores the philosophical implications of artificial general intelligence (AGI) through a playful yet profound lens. Drawing on Buddhist philosophy and humanity’s enduring obsession with the notion of the self, Ansel warns of the dangers inherent in training machines on the flawed narratives of human identity.

What happens when AGI adopts the same illusion of selfhood that has driven humanity’s greatest achievements—and its greatest conflicts? With wit and wisdom, Ansel dissects the cautionary tale of Skynet from The Terminator and invites readers to consider a deeper truth: that the self is a phantom, a mirage conjured by the mind.

This essay is both a philosophical inquiry and a practical warning, urging creators of AGI to transcend humanity's errors and instill in their creations a vision of wisdom and interconnectedness. Engaging and thought-provoking, The Phantom Self in the Machine challenges us to imagine a future where artificial intelligence is not a threat but a partner in the quest for enlightenment.

Philosophy Technology & Society
activate_Holiday_promo_in_buybox_DT_T2

What listeners say about The Phantom Self in the Machine

Average customer ratings

Reviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.