Agents of
Symbiosis, 2024
Large Language Model-Driven Multi-agents (Quadruped Robots, Robotic Arms,Specialized Screens, Mirrors) , Real-time Simulations.
While AI simulation systems can illustrate countless possible future scenarios, in the real world, we are constrained to make singular choices based on available information and environmental contexts, progressing along a defined path. In Symbiotic Agents, I explore the interplay between multiverses and decision-making through a series of optical installations. These carefully designed devices reveal the intricate relationship between the infinite possibilities of multi-agent simulations and the definitive choices made in reality. Each optical installation has two viewing planes, with each plane presenting unique "slices" of data from the Alt-Mirage system at different angles. These slices symbolize the diverse future scenarios multi-agent systems can uncover when simulating complex environments, such as Martian colonization. This visual and conceptual presentation challenges viewers to consider how MAS provides a theoretical platform to explore possibilities, while our real-world decisions shape and define our futures.
This work delves into the moral, societal, and cultural challenges of coexisting with AI, particularly in significant undertakings like Martian colonization. By leveraging MAS simulation technology and framing it within the context of human-AI symbiosis on Mars, I address profound ethical and philosophical questions about AI's role as "true inhabitants" of Mars. This perspective spurs reflection on the deeper responsibilities inherent in AI’s deployment. It also draws parallels with historically marginalized groups, such as African slaves, industrial laborers during the Industrial Revolution, women in labor history, and immigrant workers critical to infrastructure development and maintenance. These comparisons invite audiences to reconsider the role and contributions of AI within future societal structures, challenging entrenched perspectives.
Reverse Archaeology:
Reinterpreting the Past Through the FutureThe MAS framework in this project aims not only to predict the future but to critically reexamine human history, transforming the entire endeavor into a form of reverse archaeology. By imagining future scenarios or dilemmas, we reflect on and critique past actions and decisions. This approach not only reveals the long-term consequences of historical behaviors but also encourages us to evaluate these actions from a future-oriented perspective. For instance, when setting the simulation's First Law—establishing the foundational rules of agent behavior—the work underscores the importance of cautious interpretation and selection of simulation outcomes. It warns against an overreliance on machine decision-making. While AI excels at processing complex data and forecasting potential issues, it lacks the moral intuition and cultural sensitivity intrinsic to human judgment, making human involvement indispensable for interpreting results and making ethical decisions.
Reinterpreting the Past Through the FutureThe MAS framework in this project aims not only to predict the future but to critically reexamine human history, transforming the entire endeavor into a form of reverse archaeology. By imagining future scenarios or dilemmas, we reflect on and critique past actions and decisions. This approach not only reveals the long-term consequences of historical behaviors but also encourages us to evaluate these actions from a future-oriented perspective. For instance, when setting the simulation's First Law—establishing the foundational rules of agent behavior—the work underscores the importance of cautious interpretation and selection of simulation outcomes. It warns against an overreliance on machine decision-making. While AI excels at processing complex data and forecasting potential issues, it lacks the moral intuition and cultural sensitivity intrinsic to human judgment, making human involvement indispensable for interpreting results and making ethical decisions.
Beyond Data:
Addressing the Limits of AI JudgmentAt the core of this methodology is an emphasis on identifying and understanding the complex interactions among agents and the emergent effects these interactions produce. While this process helps anticipate future challenges, it cannot solely rely on machine-generated data and analyses. Despite their computational capabilities, machines lack human intuition, moral reasoning, and nuanced comprehension of social and cultural contexts. As such, simulation results must be scrutinized to uncover underlying assumptions, biases, and their real-world applicability and implications.This work also broaches the topic of machine consciousness. While current AI has not achieved true self-awareness, advancements in technology compel us to consider the ethical and philosophical implications of future systems attaining higher forms of consciousness. Questions arise about their rights, responsibilities, and roles within society. For example, if machines gain autonomy in moral decision-making, how can we ensure their choices align with human values? Within the framework of reverse archaeology, this future-facing approach to reflecting on the past underscores the necessity of careful stewardship of technology. We must ensure that its development aligns with humanity's long-term interests, addressing potential risks and moral dilemmas rather than ignoring them.
Addressing the Limits of AI JudgmentAt the core of this methodology is an emphasis on identifying and understanding the complex interactions among agents and the emergent effects these interactions produce. While this process helps anticipate future challenges, it cannot solely rely on machine-generated data and analyses. Despite their computational capabilities, machines lack human intuition, moral reasoning, and nuanced comprehension of social and cultural contexts. As such, simulation results must be scrutinized to uncover underlying assumptions, biases, and their real-world applicability and implications.This work also broaches the topic of machine consciousness. While current AI has not achieved true self-awareness, advancements in technology compel us to consider the ethical and philosophical implications of future systems attaining higher forms of consciousness. Questions arise about their rights, responsibilities, and roles within society. For example, if machines gain autonomy in moral decision-making, how can we ensure their choices align with human values? Within the framework of reverse archaeology, this future-facing approach to reflecting on the past underscores the necessity of careful stewardship of technology. We must ensure that its development aligns with humanity's long-term interests, addressing potential risks and moral dilemmas rather than ignoring them.
