Can Machines Think?

Course Description

Ever worry about the future? Ever wonder whether the AI take-over is fast approaching? Ever question whether we're all just machines after all? This course is intended to introduce students to philosophical topics in cognitive science that can help them decide where they stand on the topic of machine consciousness. The question “can machines think?” will be examined from multiple angles, each angle being covered one day of class. Some examples of class topics:
- Can AIs understand language?
- Can AIs be creative?
- Can AIs feel emotions?
- Can AIs be held morally responsible?
- Can we form real relationships with AIs?
- Will AIs ever replace us?
Students will be expected to read short articles (or excerpts) related to each topic before class (except first class) that offer contrasting perspectives. During class, the articles will be discussed in detail, and students will be encouraged converse with those who hold an opposing view, since this will allow them to round out their own convictions. Students will also be provided with supplementary materials (the history of discussions about certain topics, the history of AI development, key psychological concepts, etc.) during classes to expand on the assigned readings and provide them more food for thought. Students will also be expected to produce a 1000-1500 word essay on a topic of their choosing by the end of the course. Because the topic of machine consciousness is often explored in media, some time may be taken out of classes to watch film excerpts whose content reflects the sub-topic at hand. Class discussion will then follow, using the film content as a grounding example. Some classes will also require that students interact with AIs (e.g., AI chatbots, AI art algorithms, etc.) so that they can factor these experiences into their thoughts on the titular question.