What if I told you that no matter how advanced artificial intelligence (AI) becomes, it will never truly replicate the essence of what makes us human? Shocking, right? In a world where AI systems are becoming increasingly sophisticated, understanding their limits is more crucial than ever.

Computer science professor Robert J. Marks dives into this crucial discussion in his thought-provoking book, Non-Computable You (2022). He asserts that AI is forever confined to its electronic origins, unable to perform the non-computable functions that characterize human experience. Unlike AI, which operates purely on algorithms—a set of mechanical instructions—human beings are driven by a rich tapestry of emotions and consciousness.

Marks identifies at least 16 elements of the human mind, such as compassion, love, and empathy, that defy computation. These emotional dimensions are the cornerstones of our humanity, and AI, which lacks true understanding and self-awareness, remains fundamentally incapable of experiencing them. Think about it: when you see an AI displaying what looks like emotion, remember that it’s simply a product of complex programming, not genuine feeling.

This leads us to a deeper philosophical debate. Are we merely biological machines? Renowned figures like Carl Sagan and cognitive scientist Daniel Dennett have proposed that what we perceive as the mind is simply a byproduct of our brain's anatomy and function. But does that really capture the essence of our consciousness? Can we reduce it to mere chemical interactions and electrical impulses?

While some futurists, including transhumanist Ray Kurzweil, fantasize about uploading human consciousness to machines, many scientists caution against viewing the brain solely as a physical computer. Dr. Michael Egnor, a brain surgeon with extensive experience, challenges this notion in his upcoming book, The Immortal Mind (2025). Egnor argues that our minds cannot be entirely contained within our brains, as evidenced by individuals who live fulfilling lives despite significant brain impairments.

Unlike AI, which requires a fully functioning electronic brain, humans demonstrate incredible resilience and adaptability. Even after brain surgeries that remove critical sections, a person's core personality and consciousness often remain intact. In contrast, damage to an AI system can lead to a complete breakdown of function.

Consider the mind’s mysterious dimensions—abstract thought, free will, and creativity—all of which cannot be neatly localized in the brain. While AI operates on defined protocols, human cognition is messy and unpredictable. This uniqueness is what sets us apart from our synthetic counterparts.

Moreover, near-death experiences (NDEs) provide further evidence of the mind's transcendence beyond the physical realm. Individuals who have experienced NDEs often report profound insights and a sense of self that persists even when their brains exhibit no activity. Such experiences illustrate that our consciousness extends beyond mere biochemical processes, something AI could never replicate.

In their book, Soulless Intelligence (2024), Bryan and Greg Trilli echo this sentiment, arguing that AI lacks the vital characteristics that define humanity, primarily the existence of a soul. As we navigate an era increasingly dominated by technology, it’s vital to remember that while AI can mimic human-like behaviors, it will never embody the complexities of the human experience.

So, while it may be tempting to view AI as the next evolution of intelligence, let’s be clear: AI can never surpass the rich tapestry of thoughts, feelings, and experiences that define our humanity. Be nice to your robot, but don’t be fooled into thinking it’s human.