As Artificial Intelligence rapidly reshapes the landscape of human possibility, an essential question arises: what forms of intelligence are we amplifying, and which are we at risk of forgetting? In my presentation, The Original AI: Remembering Ancestral Intelligence, I explore the enduring presence of a far older intelligence—one rooted not in code, but in culture, embodiment, and lived experience. Ancestral Intelligence is the accumulated wisdom carried through generations in story, ritual, symbol, and the deep knowing of the human body. It offers context, meaning, and ethical grounding—qualities that no algorithm can fully replicate.

Rather than positioning these two forms of intelligence in opposition, this talk invites a deeper integration. As we build increasingly powerful external technologies, we are called to also cultivate our inner technologies—the capacities of awareness, attention, and connection that have guided humanity for millennia. Ancestral Intelligence reminds us that intelligence is not only about what we can create, but how we live, relate, and make meaning together. In a world shaped by Artificial Intelligence, it may be this original intelligence that helps ensure our future remains not only innovative, but deeply human... Listen to the full presentation

Presented at the Anthropology of Consciousness Conference, April 2026 by Paul Robear, President / Executive Director, CUYA- Cuyamungue Institute.

Also available in Spotify for download

• Laura Lee, Laura Lee Show, Conversation4Exploration. Conversation 4 Exploration, CUYA - Cuyamungue Institute, Paul Robear

Sacred Architecture is a re-discovery of our collective heritage, showing us how to understand the symbols of change provided by the buildings and monuments of our ancestors. The language of the sacred can be seen in buildings as diverse as the Parthenon, Hopi initiation lodges, Stonehenge, Temple at Luxor, the cathedrals and the Palladian memory theatre, in which astronomical, mythical geometric and structural patterns have been incorporated. From the early astrological and mythical influences which determined the location, form and function of early monuments.

From the Archives: This live interview was recorded on April 15, 1995 on the nationally syndicated radio program, hosted by Laura Lee . See more at www.lauralee.com

Also available in Spotify for download

• Laura Lee, Laura Lee Show, Conversation4Exploration. Conversation 4 Exploration, CUYA - Cuyamungue Institute, Paul Robear

Let’s look at the Myths of the Ancients. When you read the thousands of mythologies, as our guest has done over thirty years, we ask him what patterns emerge buried in the stories of the ancient left us? Are there accounts of actual happenings

What did they describe about the world and why did they all reminisce about a golden age? What was that all about? Our guest Dave Talbott, has got an interesting perspective on all of this - just what does ancient stories are your stories or actual histories?

From the Archives: This live interview was recorded on July 26, 2001 on the nationally syndicated radio program, hosted by Laura Lee . See more at www.lauralee.com

Also available in Spotify for download

• Laura Lee, Laura Lee Show, Conversation4Exploration. Conversation 4 Exploration, CUYA - Cuyamungue Institute, Paul Robear