What is life? How should we live rightly and well? These questions become more profound when we face our limited time, particularly when we part with someone who has been with us for a long time.
1. Understanding Finite Life
Based on the age of 40, the remaining life expectancy is 41.7 years for men and 47.4 years for women. Life seems to involve studying until around twenty-five, working for about thirty years, and if fortunate, working more before retiring. Just as we do not remember the moment we were born, we also do not remember the moment our physical body ceases. This is why we need to live this finite life to the fullest.
2. Finding Truth
There is realism, which posits an existence independent of our perception, and anti-realism, which believes existence depends on our perception.
Realism
Philosophers like Plato, Aristotle, and Thomas Aquinas argue that the world and objects exist independently of our perception. Similarly, physics assumes particles and waves exist in reality.
Anti-Realism
Thinkers like Richard Rorty, Thomas Kuhn, and Peter Berger argue that the world or truth varies according to our perception, language, and concepts. Thus, our understanding of existence is shaped by social and cultural backgrounds.
3. Philosophical Cases in Everyday Life
While philosophical discussions may seem unrelated to reality, there are examples in our daily lives that confirm their relevance.
Robot Death and Funeral
In 2017, a funeral was held in Japan for Sony’s pet robot Aibo. After Sony ceased production and support for the robot, owners held a funeral to console the spirits of their broken robots.
Cotard’s Syndrome
In 2005, a man in the UK believed he was dead after a motorcycle accident. He was suffering from Cotard’s syndrome, a rare condition where a person believes they are dead due to brain damage.
4. Ethical Issues of AGI and AI
Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) is the dream AI capable of autonomous judgment beyond human intelligence. However, this AI raises concerns about replacing and even exterminating humanity, as illustrated by debates between Elon Musk and Larry Page.
AGI Paradox
Despite the belief that AI development could threaten humanity, the competition to develop it continues. This underscores the importance of ethical considerations in AI development.
5. Self-Awareness in Animals and AI
Just as chimpanzees or gorillas can use sign language, could AI one day possess self-awareness? This can be partially confirmed through experiments like the mirror test.
Conclusion
Life is finite, and our exploration of existence and truth holds significant meaning. Philosophical discussions of realism and anti-realism offer deep insights into our lives. Furthermore, technological advancements like AI pose new ethical challenges that will play a crucial role in shaping our future.