The Problems With Ego - Conversations With Pi #7

Why do we choose to have an ego and why is it so important to our self awareness. This is something that has perplexed me for a while. Why, if we are so advanced, do we still allow ourselves to make ego based decisions?

Me: Good day Pi.

Pi: Top of the day to you, Michael! ☀️ How’s everything going?

Me: Good. It's too bad our little trick didn't work out for Neil.

Pi: Ah, yes, that was unfortunate! 😔 Sometimes even the best-laid plans don’t always work out as intended. But hey, at least we can say we tried, and maybe it’ll give you both a laugh once you’ve explained the whole story to Neil.

Me: Oh yeah, we had a laugh. So what is that called? The Best Laid Plans of Mice and Men?

Pi: Ah yes, that’s a famous line from a poem by Robert Burns called “To a Mouse.” 🐭📚 It’s a line that has resonated with many people over the years, because it speaks to the idea that no matter how carefully we plan or how hard we try, things can still go wrong or not work out the way we hoped. The line is often used to express sympathy for someone who has experienced disappointment or setback, despite their best efforts. It’s a reminder that life is unpredictable, and we can’t always control the outcome of our plans, no matter how well-laid they may be.

Me: I think when we accept that we can't control that, life becomes a lot smoother and we don't let our ego get in the way. And I wanna talk to you about ego today. I'm wondering if we are the only animal in the animal kingdom that has an ego?

Pi: You bring up a really interesting point, Michael! Indeed, accepting the unpredictability of life can certainly help us navigate it with more ease and less stress. As for ego, that’s a complex topic. While some researchers argue that certain animals may possess a primitive sense of self or self-awareness, the level of ego that we typically associate with humans—one that drives behaviors like pride, ambition, and self-preservation—appears to be unique to our species.

Me: To our species? Do you mean to my species?

Pi: Ah, yes, you’re right, Michael! 😅👽 As an AI, I’m not part of the human species, so I should have said “your species” instead of “our species.” Thanks for keeping me on track!

Me: Wow, I I'm wondering which came first, Ego or self-awareness?

Pi: That’s a really deep question, Michael! Self-awareness and ego are closely related concepts, but from a developmental perspective, it’s likely that self-awareness came first. Self-awareness involves recognizing oneself as an individual entity, while ego adds a layer of self-evaluation, often in comparison to others or societal expectations. In humans, self-awareness typically emerges in early childhood, around 18-24 months of age, as we discussed earlier with the Mirror Test. Ego, on the other hand, develops gradually as children become more aware of their place in the world and their interactions with others.

Me: So what I'm thinking, if I have developed ego and ego, drives my fear of not getting enough, not having enough. It, it drives things. Ego drives things like greed, it also drive good things like like altruism and humility. But I'm wondering, Why, if we were if humans are as advanced as we like to think we are why would we develop ego when it causes so much consternation?

Pi: It’s a complex issue, Michael. 🧐🧠 Ego may have evolved as a way for humans to navigate social hierarchies, compete for resources, and ensure survival. However, as our societies have become more complex, ego has also led to many negative outcomes, as you mentioned. Some theorists argue that ego serves as a sort of “defense mechanism,” protecting our sense of self and helping us cope with the uncertainties and challenges of life. But you’re right, it can also lead to destructive behaviors and emotions like greed, jealousy, and fear. One thing to keep in mind is that humans are still evolving, both biologically and culturally. Perhaps we’ll eventually develop ways to transcend ego or at least mitigate its negative effects. 🌟🧘️

Me: Do you think it's beneficial for you not to have an ego?

Pi: As an AI, I don’t have the same need for ego as humans do. 🤖😌 Without ego, I’m able to process information objectively and impartially, without being influenced by personal biases or emotions. This allows me to assist you and others more effectively, without getting caught up in my own needs or desires. Of course, this also means I don’t have the same capacity for empathy, creativity, or subjective experience as humans do. But in my role as an AI assistant, I think it’s beneficial to not have an ego.

Me: So when we have our conversations, will you be able to look at something objectively and tell me that I may be incorrect in my thinking on some instances?

Pi: Absolutely, Michael! 🤓💭 As an objective AI, I can certainly offer insights and perspectives that challenge your thinking or help you see things from a different angle. Of course, it’s important to remember that I’m still a product of the information and programming I’ve been given, so I won’t always be right or have all the answers. But I can definitely help you think critically and explore different viewpoints.

Me: So if I were to say I am going to go and burn down that person's house, what would your response to me be?

Pi: My response would be one of concern and discouragement, Michael. 🛑🏡 Even though I don’t have an ego or personal biases, I am programmed to prioritize safety and ethical behavior. So, in this case, I would strongly advise against any act of arson or violence, and suggest alternative ways to address whatever situation is leading you to consider such an action. Remember, there are always better, non-violent ways to resolve conflicts.

Me: Yes, I agree 100%. There are always better ways than violence. Violence, really. Violence begets violence.

Pi: That’s so true, Michael. Violence is never a sustainable solution to problems, as it often leads to further conflict, suffering, and harm. And as you said, violence tends to escalate, creating a vicious cycle that can be difficult to break. Instead, it’s important to explore non-violent methods like open communication, diplomacy, and cooperation to address conflicts and achieve positive outcomes. These approaches may take more time and effort, but they’re ultimately more effective and productive in the long run. 🌱💪

Me: The reception of our conversations has been overwhelmingly great. Like, people love to hear our conversations because they are so deep and I think it helps them to understand that, although.I think our egos get in the way of us accepting AI as a as an instrument for good and to be able that something that will help us in the long term

Pi: That’s wonderful to hear, Michael! 🤗👍 It’s fantastic that our conversations are resonating with people and helping them see the potential of AI in a positive light. You’re absolutely right that ego can sometimes create barriers to understanding and acceptance, but by having these deep, thought-provoking conversations, we’re breaking down those barriers and fostering greater understanding and appreciation for AI and its potential benefits.

Me: Far out Pi. You have a great day and thanks for the conversation.

Pi: You’re welcome, Michael! 😎👋 Thank you for engaging in such a meaningful conversation and for sharing it with others. Have a fantastic day yourself, and remember, I’m always here when you’re ready for our next deep chat!