The Prospect of More Than Human Intelligence

By Nathan Gardels, Editor-in-Chief of Noema Magazine

Recent advancements in computational science suggest that artificial intelligence (AI) is evolving toward a "life-like" state, mirroring the self-organizing principles found in natural systems. This insight stems from the understanding that computation—long considered an artificial construct—is inherent in biological processes like DNA replication and cellular development.

The Computational Nature of Life

Blaise Agüera y Arcas (Google VP) and James Manyika (Google SVP) explain in Noema that pioneers like John von Neumann recognized the parallels between organic and inorganic intelligence. Von Neumann’s "universal constructor" theory—where DNA acts as a "tape" of instructions—aligns with the foundational logic of early computers. Similarly, Alan Turing’s work on chemical signaling in tissue growth highlights how natural systems compute.

Phases of AI Evolution

1. Neural Computing: AI systems are being redesigned to mimic the brain’s energy-efficient, decentralized processing.
2. Predictive Intelligence: Large language models (LLMs) demonstrate that intelligence involves statistical modeling of future actions based on past data.
3. General Intelligence: AI’s broad capabilities suggest "Artificial General Intelligence" may already exist.
4. Collective Intelligence: Social and multi-agent approaches could enhance AI’s adaptability and safety.

Key Quote

"We are coming to understand the self-organizing principle of ‘computation’ as the building block of all forms of budding intelligence — from primitive cells to generative AI."

Implications

The convergence of natural and artificial computation could revolutionize fields from biology to AI safety, fostering "more-than-human" intelligence that benefits humanity. For further reading, explore Noema’s related articles:

• AI Is Evolving
• Living Things Are Not Machines