Advanced Seminar: Machine Decision is Not Final

(2 Credits)

This 7-week course will introduce students to (1) the early history of cybernetics and artificial intelligence in China, (2) contemporary Chinese and Western cultural theory of artificial intelligence and (3) the theme of AI in contemporary Chinese science-fiction. AI is an increasingly important and contentious topic, generating philosophical debates about the nature of intelligence, political debates about the proper role of algorithmic technologies in society, as well as active speculation about the future. Based on the work of the NYU Shanghai Center for AI and Culture, this course will introduce students to the core issues in these areas. Prerequisite: Sophomore status or above. Fulfillment: IMA Advanced elective or elective; IMB IMA/IMB elective.