PHIL 237 - Philosophy of Artificial Intelligence

(3 credits)
Prerequisite: One 100-level, three credit course in philosophy or CRIT 111
This course critically examines the history, theory and mechanics of artificial intelligence (AI). What is “intelligence?” What does it mean to attribute “intelligence” to a machine? Do machines have “minds” in the way that humans do? What sort of ethical questions are becoming urgent with recent developments in AI, and how should society address them? In addition to becoming familiar with different strands of AI research and learning to solve basic programming problems, students will consider how AI will impact their professional and personal lives. Offered alternate years. (CHUM; CQUR)