Story perspectives

Pollan's New Book Explores Consciousness and AI Insights

3/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

Michael Pollan's new book, A World Appears, examines consciousness and how physical processes contribute to subjective experiences.
In an interview with Ian Sample, Pollan discusses how thoughts and feelings influence consciousness.
He considers the potential insights AI may offer about human consciousness.
Pollan emphasizes protecting our minds in an increasingly technology-driven society and aims to illuminate what is known and unknown about consciousness.

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Story summary

Michael Pollan's new book, A World Appears, examines consciousness and how physical processes contribute to subjective experiences.
In an interview with Ian Sample, Pollan discusses how thoughts and feelings influence consciousness.
He considers the potential insights AI may offer about human consciousness.
Pollan emphasizes protecting our minds in an increasingly technology-driven society and aims to illuminate what is known and unknown about consciousness.