The Edge of Sentience: Risk and Precaution in Humans, Other Animals, and AI

by Jonathan Birch
The Edge of Sentience: Risk and Precaution in Humans, Other Animals, and AI cover
Good Books rating 4.27
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Hardback • £30.00
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  • ID: 6014
  • Added: 2025-10-29
  • Updated: 2025-10-31
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
ResearchGate · Anonymous · 2025-09-30
compelling 4.50

Birch's framework offers a compelling rationale for a paradigm shift in adoption, mandating enhanced adopter screening and ethical considerations. The book is a significant contribution to the field.

This review highlights the transformative potential of Birch's framework in shaping our approach to sentience. The author argues that Birch's work provides a strong rationale for a paradigm shift, particularly in areas requiring adopter screening and ethical considerations. The book is seen as a significant contribution to the field, offering a comprehensive and compelling argument for why and how we should rethink our understanding of sentience. The discussion on the practical implications of this framework is particularly noteworthy, as it bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. The reviewer's perspective is that this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the ethical and policy dimensions of sentience.

Quick quotes

    The results indicate that Birch's framework offers a compelling rationale for a paradigm shift in adoption, mandating enhanced adopter screening and ethical considerations.

    The book is a significant contribution to the field, offering a comprehensive and compelling argument for why and how we should rethink our understanding of sentience.

    The discussion on the practical implications of this framework is particularly noteworthy, as it bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.

Leonardo · 2024-12-31
thought-provoking 4.00

The book offers a compelling journey through the complexities of sentience in humans, animals, and AI, sparking both engagement and controversy. It highlights the ethical and policy implications of understanding sentience across different life forms.

This book takes readers on an intriguing exploration of what it means to be sentient, covering humans, animals, and even artificial intelligence. The author does a fantastic job of making complex scientific and ethical concepts accessible, while also stirring up some debate. It's a thought-provoking read that challenges our understanding of consciousness and the moral responsibilities that come with it. The discussion on policy implications is particularly noteworthy, as it bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. However, some readers might find certain arguments controversial, as the book doesn't shy away from tackling contentious topics.

Quick quotes

    Birch takes readers on a compelling, engaging, and at times controversial journey through the sentient life of humans, a variety of nonhuman animals, and AI.

    The book offers a comprehensive framework for making ethically sound decisions despite the uncertainty surrounding sentience.

    Birch reminds us that sentience is not intelligence, meaning that most nonhuman animal brains can register suffering perhaps more than exhibiting higher thinking.

Goodreads · Anonymous · 2024-07-31
insightful 4.30

Highly recommended for those interested in the science, ethics, and policy implications of sentience in animals and AI systems. The book provides a thorough and engaging exploration of these topics.

If you're diving into the world of sentience, this book is a must-read. It's not just about the science; it delves deep into the ethical dilemmas and policy challenges that arise from our understanding of sentience. The author does an excellent job of presenting complex ideas in a way that's both accessible and thought-provoking. The book is particularly strong in its discussion of practical policy implications, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in how our understanding of sentience can shape real-world decisions. The reader's enthusiasm for the book is palpable, and it's clear that they found it both informative and engaging.

Quick quotes

    I recommend this book highly for those interested in the science, ethics, and practical policy implications of sentience in animals, AI systems, and more.

    The book provides a thorough and engaging exploration of these topics.

    It's not just about the science; it delves deep into the ethical dilemmas and policy challenges that arise from our understanding of sentience.

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