The Algorithmic Unconscious

How Psychoanalysis Helps in Understanding AI

By: Luca Possati

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Hardcover | 25 February 2021 | Edition Number 1

At a Glance

Hardcover
158 Pages

Dimensions(cm)
23.4 x 15.6 x 1.12

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This book applies the concepts and methods of psychoanalysis to the study of artificial intelligence (AI) and human-AI interaction. It is the first of its kind in its aim to understand how psychoanalysis can be used to understand AI and machine behavior, not the opposite. It appeals to a broad range of scholars: philosophers working on psychoanalysis, technology, AI ethics, and cognitive sciences, psychoanalysts, psychologists and computer scientists.

The book is divided into four parts. The first part (chapter 1) analyzes the concept of "machine behavior." The second part (chapter 2) develops a reinterpretation of some fundamental Freudian and Lacanian concepts through Bruno Latour's actor-network theory. The third part (chapters 3 and 4) focuses on the nature and structure of the algorithmic unconscious. The author claims that the unconscious roots of AI lie in a form of projective identification, i.e., an emotional and imaginative exchange between humans and machines. In the fourth part of the book (chapter 5), the author advances the thesis that neuropsychoanalysis and the affective neurosciences can provide a new paradigm for research on artificial general intelligence.

The Algorithmic Unconscious

explores a completely new approach to AI, which can also be defined as a form of "therapy." Analyzing the projective identification processes that take place in groups of professional programmers and designers, as well as the "hidden" features of AI (errors, noise information, biases, etc.), represents an important tool to enable a healthy and positive relationship between humans and AI. Psychoanalysis is used as a critical space for reflection, innovation, and progress.

Industry Reviews

"In this illuminating book, Luca M. Possati explores the unconscious dimension of Artificial Intelligence. Its main thesis is that in the age of big data and self-learning neural networks 'machine behavior' has become dark and impenetrable and is in need for interpretation. Combining Lacanian psychoanalysis and Latour's actor-network theory the author offers an original and timely analysis of how we project our deepest desires in AI technologies and pleas for a new 'subcortical AI'."

- Jos de Mul, Erasmus School of Philosophy, Erasmus University Rotterdam, The Netherlands

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