Computationalism, Artificial Intelligence, and Emotions
Computationalism, Artificial Intelligence, and Emotions

Summary/Abstract: The article critiques the reliance on computationalism and functionalism in strong artificial intelligence (AI), emphasizing the inadequacies of comparing the human brain to conventional computers. It discusses computationalism’s view that the brain functions similarly to a computer, proposing that mental states can exist independently of a biological substrate. This notion, while appealing, is challenged by evidence of the brain’s complex and dynamic nature, including its distributed information storage and the intricate processes governing neuronal activity. The role of emotions in cognition is explored, challenging the dichotomy between reason and emotion, and showcasing how emotions are integral to decision-making and problem-solving. The development of emotional artificial intelligence (EAI) is highlighted, demonstrating its potential applications and associated ethical considerations. Additionally, the article delves into the ongoing debate concerning consciousness, advocating for a nuanced understanding of the mind-body relationship and emphasizing the interconnectedness of neural processes and embodied experiences. Ultimately, the article asserts that simplistic analogies between brains and computers fail to capture the complexity of human cognition and the embodied nature of consciousness, calling for a re-evaluation of AI’s theoretical foundations.

• Details
• Contents