HIVA02017U Computers, Artificial Intelligence, and Philosophy of Mind, Cph, Elective modul

Volume 2014/2015
Education
Information Science and Cultural Dissemination
Content
This course is an introduction to philosophical issues concerning computers and computing. If focusses especially on the work of Alan Turing and his revolutionary ideas and legacy. As a graduate student, Turing invented the fundamental logical principles of the modern computer. While breaking Enigma during World War II, he experimented with what is now called heuristic search and designed the electro-mechanical "bombe"--an early computer and the first step on the road to modern Artificial Intelligence (AI). Topics include: the Turing Test for computer thought, the "Chinese Room" argument against the possibility of strong AI, connectionist AI, consciousness, the Church-Turing thesis, computational and hypercomputational models of mind, and free will. An introductory section outlines the history of the computer and describes how the laptops and mainframes of today originated.
Learning Outcome

The objective of the module is to provide the student with

knowledge and understanding of:

  • A specific subject within library and information science.
  • Relevant theories and methods related to the module's theme. 

skills in:

  • Identifying and outlining academic issues within library and information science and make these the object of independent analysis.
  • Reflecting critically on theoretical and methodological choices in relation to an academic issue.
  • Expanding on and putting a chosen subject field within library and information science into perspective.

competences in:

  • Applying relevant theories and methods to a subject within library and information science.
  • Communicating a scientifically studied issue.

Examples of literature that will be used in the course:

Copeland, Jack (1993). Artificial Intelligence: A philosophical introduction. Blackwell. Paperback.
 
Copeland, Jack (2004). The Essential Turing. Oxford University Press. Paperback.

Floridi,  Luciano (2003). Guide to the Philosophy of Computing and Information. Blackwell. Paperback.

Oxford Handbook of Philosophy of Cognitive Science. (2012). E. Margolis, R. Samuels and Stich S.P.  (eds). Oxford University Press.

Teaching: Lectures and discussions
  • Category
  • Hours
  • Class Instruction
  • 22,5
  • Exam
  • 72
  • Preparation
  • 110,9
  • Total
  • 205,4
Credit
7,5 ECTS
Type of assessment
Written assignment
Written paper with subject chosen by the student
Exam language: English
Marking scale
7-point grading scale
Censorship form
No external censorship
Exam period
Winter 2014/2015
Re-exam
Examination form as an ordinary exam, February 2015