851-0144-21L Philosophical Issues and Problems in Theoretical Computer Science
Semester | Autumn Semester 2016 |
Lecturers | G. Sommaruga, J. Copeland, D. Proudfoot |
Periodicity | non-recurring course |
Language of instruction | English |
Comment | Particularly suitable for students of D-INFK |
Abstract | This course studies philosophical issues concerning computers and computing. Topics include: information (and information content), computational complexity, 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. |
Objective | - Exhibit a general understanding of the philosophy and history of computing. - Explain central problems in the field and their potential solutions, independently and at a level requiring in-depth knowledge and critical understanding. - Communicate clearly in writing about topics in this field. |