Modelling the Primitive Brain in AI

In this episode, we explore a bold new vision for artificial intelligence, one that moves beyond the current neocortex-inspired focus of large language models like ChatGPT. Instead of relying solely on high-level reasoning and language, the discussion centers around a “bottom-up” approach grounded in biology and evolution. Drawing inspiration from the brain’s older, more primal structures, the episode introduces the idea of building AI with foundational systems like a Digital Brainstem for basic reflexes and stability, a Digital Limbic System for emotional and motivational drives, and a Digital Cerebellum for fine-tuned motor skills. This layered architecture could lead to AI that’s not only smarter, but more stable, grounded, and autonomous. Through robotics experiments and practical demonstrations, the episode shows how mimicking the full architecture of biological intelligence, not just its higher-order functions, could be key to the next leap in AI development.