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From: barrie@netcom.com (Michael Valdivielso)
Subject: Re: What is artificial intelligence... etc.
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Date: Sun, 13 Apr 1997 20:14:00 GMT
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Ulrike Hassold (Ulrike@ferret.demon.co.uk) wrote:
: Hi there

: I was wondering where I can find a definition for the term "artificial
: intelligence".  Or can anybody tell me?  Do you believe that machines
: could ever be thought of as intelligent?

My idea of AI is a machine that can take in, process and act on 
information and is at least equal to the human brain in speed and 
logic skills.  I don't think it has to be LIKE a human brain, but that is 
one of the only examples we have of intelligent life, besides whales maybe.
Nor does it have to have emotions or be 'aware' in the sense that it is 
a'living being'.  


: And assuming that it is possible to develop an intelligent machine, do
: you ever think about how society would react to it? 

Mixed reactions.  Maybe people will look at AI as dangerous creatures who 
wish to take over the Earth or at least enslave mankind.  Others will 
embrace AI as new tools for solving the more complex problems in all 
fields of science.  Hospitals, Museums, Schools will have AI systems.

: Would an intelligent machine be alive? 
 
                                      No.  A AI unit would not have 
the full range of emotions or skills of a living being.  Its programs and 
hardware would still limit its thoughts and actions. Free will it would 
not have.  Heck, we still debate if we have free will.

: Could it pray? 

 It could say the words.

: Would it or should it have any rights?  You see stuff like that on TV but 
: I'd be interested in people's opinions.

AI units have rights?  Depends.  Animals have rights.  Slaves had 
certains rights about punishment and treatment.  AI units would be looked 
at as a slave.  Remember, Romans called slaves : Tools that could think.
Would we treat super smart robots any better?  If we got mad, would we 
beat them with sticks or push them out windows at Christmas parties when 
we're too drunk to care?

: Are there any web pages that deal with these questions that I have?

: Any help is greatly appreciated.

: Ulrike

Just some thoughts.

Mike V.
-- 
"There's no chance for us,
 It's all decided for us,
 This world has only one sweet moment set aside for us..."
           |-]=======>    barrie@netcom.com     <=======[-|

