Presented by the Cultural Programme. Co-curated and hosted by Dr Chris Thorogood (Oxford Botanic Garden), co-hosted by Hot Poets.

An afternoon of conversation, research and creativity exploring how we define and understand different states of consciousness from plants, humans and other animals, to AI.
What does it mean to be conscious? How does consciousness manifest itself across the tree of life – from plants to animals and humans to machines? Many of our mental processes can already be mimicked by AI but our awareness and perceptions of being – our consciousness – so far, remains out of reach. Consciousness is rooted in biology and psychology, and AI is grounded in computer science; but as the limits to AI expand, we will need to dissolve the confines between these disciplines to tackle the interlocking challenges facing our planet.

This interdisciplinary panel discussion held at Oxford University Museum of Natural History will tackle big questions around consciousness, from the perspectives of biologists, psychiatrists, anthropologists, artists and AI specialists.

Hosted by Chris Thorogood, chaired by Carl Miller, with guest panellists and speakers including Willem Kuyken, Nayanika Mathur and Kenneth Cukier.

The afternoon will be co-facilitated by Hot Poets, an award-winning spoken-word project bringing together science and climate action.

Tickets £10, Students & U25s £5. Booking required.

Free