Which philosopher's view of human beings equates them to "bytes of digital information"?

The philosopher whose view of human beings equates them to "bytes of digital information" is indeed Richard Dawkins. Dawkins is best known for his work in evolutionary biology and for popularizing the concept of the "selfish gene," which emphasizes the role of genes as units of natural selection. In this context, his portrayal of organisms can be understood as vehicles for genes, similar to how digital information (or bytes) functions in computational frameworks.

Dawkins argues that genes carry information and that this information can be transmitted, altered, and replicated, much like digital data in the realm of technology. This analogy suggests that, at a fundamental level, human beings can be seen as composed of information encoded in their DNA, reflecting both biological and digital perspectives. This comparison emphasizes the informational aspect of existence, allowing for discussions regarding genetics, evolution, and even the potential for artificial intelligence and consciousness.

Understanding this framework allows for a deeper engagement with contemporary discussions about the nature of life, consciousness, and the impact of information technology on our understanding of human existence.