Michael Pollan’s journey to understand consciousness

Michael Pollan, author of "A World Appears: A Journey Into Consciousness," explores the multifaceted nature of consciousness, contrasting scientific theories with personal experiences. The discussion questions the widely held belief in Silicon Valley that AI can achieve consciousness, with Pollan arguing that computers lack the capacity for real feeling, a crucial element in consciousness. Drawing from neuroscience, he highlights the role of feelings and homeostasis, originating in the brainstem, as the foundation of consciousness. The conversation touches on the potential sentience of plants and the implications for our understanding of consciousness in the natural world. Pollan also recounts his experiences with meditation, including a solitary retreat in a cave, as a means to explore the elusive nature of the self.