AI Seminar
April 21, 2003

Speaker: Timothy Ketelaar

Title: Modelling human decision-making: Insights from how computers play chess

Abstract:
The  algorithmic view of the mind that is endorsed by some AI
researchers is often challenged on grounds that semantics (or "true"
understanding) cannot be achieved via mere syntax.   Philosopher John
Searle, for example, developed his "Chinese Room Thought Experiment"
(CRTE) to illustrate the dubious nature of this algorithmic approach
to mental activity.  I review insights from how computers play chess
to illustrate how Searle's skepticism is not fully warranted.