Can AI think – or how does it work, philosophically speaking – and what will AI mean for society?

What is it about?

This article explores AI as a form of intelligence in order to clarify what AI actually is and how it functions. As it turns out, we have been reflecting on and investigating these questions for a long time, and the article provides an overview of the classical arguments. The conclusion is that AI neither thinks nor is conscious in the way a human being is. Rather, it is a machine capable of performing statistical computations – highly useful, yet also posing several risks. Part of the problem arises from the fact that AI appears to be engaged in communication. However, AI does not actually communicate if we understand communication as a mutual exchange where both parties can change their mind. Furthermore, we must consider that the providers of AI technology determine how it works – and thus what meaning the AI presents to us.

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Photo by Pascal Bernardon on Unsplash

Photo by Pascal Bernardon on Unsplash

Why is it important?

We need to approach AI in a realistic and critical manner, and this article offers essential knowledge for doing so.