This course explores the concept of intelligence without brains, showcasing examples from the natural world such as plants, bees, ants, and molds. Participants will learn about plant bio-acoustics, slime mold intelligence, collective intelligence, swarm behavior, and the ethical implications of our interactions with non-human intelligent beings. The teaching method includes panel discussions, presentations, and a film on plant intelligence. This course is intended for individuals interested in understanding the diverse forms of intelligence beyond traditional human-centric perspectives.
Overview
Syllabus
- Program introduction
- Opening film on the study of plant intelligence
- Panelist introductions
- Plant bio-acoustics
- Slime mold intelligence
- Interaction between fungi and trees
- Plant memory and learning
- Transmission of memory in slime molds
- Collective intelligence
- Leaf-cutter ant intelligence
- Swarm behavior
- Applying swarm intelligence to robotics
- Moving beyond the neuronal model of intelligence
- Consciousness
- Ethics of our interaction with plants and animals
- Environmental effects on collaboration
Taught by
World Science Festival
