Philosophy and Computation
Analyze fundamental results from the early theory of computation such as the unsolvability of the halting problem, uncomputability, computational complexity, and intractability. Question central notions such as 'implementation' of a program, what a program is, what an algorithm is, 'software' versus 'hardware' distinction, and other distinctions. Discuss issues surrounding the relation between computation, thought, and experience. Consider questions such as what artificial intelligence is, whether there is a relevant distinction between 'simulation' of a phenomenon such as intelligence versus the production of genuine intelligence, the ethics of AI, and the status of various 'virtual' entities, such as internet sites, the metaverse, and bitcoin. Philosophy 363L (Topic: Philosophy and Computation) and 363L (Topic 6) may not both be counted.
Prerequisites & course information
Analyze fundamental results from the early theory of computation such as the unsolvability of the halting problem, uncomputability, computational complexity, and intractability. Question central notions such as 'implementation' of a program, what a program is, what an algorithm is, 'software' versus 'hardware' distinction, and other distinctions. Discuss issues surrounding the relation between computation, thought, and experience. Consider questions such as what artificial intelligence is, whether there is a relevant distinction between 'simulation' of a phenomenon such as intelligence versus the production of genuine intelligence, the ethics of AI, and the status of various 'virtual' entities, such as internet sites, the metaverse, and bitcoin. Philosophy 363L (Topic: Philosophy and Computation) and 363L (Topic 6) may not both be counted.
Sources
- Course catalogue ↗2026-2027