Re:Toward a Mature Science of Consciousness
by michaelscott on Wednesday June 27, 2018 @04:14AM
(#17406553)
The algorithm is an interesting distinction to make.
I could argue that any machine learning algorithm is simply making probabilistic calculations based on input data in order to reach some kind of singular output. In this view (which I wouldn't discount), the machine learning algorithm is little more than a very advanced function. In my view, a function is not something I would consider a "subject" not would I consider it to have any ability to "perceive" an illusion. There's no sentience.
If we say the complexity of the algorithm is great enough that it can be said to "perceive", I would argue the algorithm does become a "who" instead of a "what". Still, there is a surprising amount of nuance to this concept that makes it very interesting.
I could argue that any machine learning algorithm is simply making probabilistic calculations based on input data in order to reach some kind of singular output. In this view (which I wouldn't discount), the machine learning algorithm is little more than a very advanced function. In my view, a function is not something I would consider a "subject" not would I consider it to have any ability to "perceive" an illusion. There's no sentience.
If we say the complexity of the algorithm is great enough that it can be said to "perceive", I would argue the algorithm does become a "who" instead of a "what". Still, there is a surprising amount of nuance to this concept that makes it very interesting.