CS408: Advanced Artificial Intelligence

In this unit, we will study the Turing machine as a definition of the intuitive notion of computability in the discrete domain. In the theory of computation, many major complexity classes can be characterized by an appropriately restricted Turing machine. We will also discuss the claim that human thinking is a kind of symbol manipulation. Note that a symbol system is necessary for intelligence and that machines can be intelligent. Finally, we will discuss the ongoing neuroscientific attempt to understand how the human brain works and examine the possible role of consciousness in the machines. Is it possible, in theory and then in practice, to create a machine that has all the capabilities of a human being?

Completing this unit should take you approximately 26 hours.