AP/PHIL3750 3.0 M: Philosophy of Artificial Intelligence
Offered by: PHIL
(Cross-listed to: AP/COGS3750 3.0M )
Session
Summer 2019
Term
S2
Format
LECT
Instructor
Calendar Description / Prerequisite / Co-Requisite
An introduction to philosophical issues in Artificial Intelligence (AI). The goal is for students to be able to gain basic understanding of the cognitive architectures used by Al programmers, and reflect critically on research in Al from a philosophical perspective. Prerequisites: One of AP/PHIL 2160 3.00 or AP/PHIL 2240 3.00.
Course Website
Many courses utilize Moodle, York University's course website system. If your course is using Moodle, refer to the image below to access it.
Professor Verena Gottschling
Office Location: S436 Ross Building
Phone Number: (416) 736-2100 Ext. 77553
Office Hours: Wednesdays 1:30 – 2:30
This course is an introductory overview of artificial intelligence (AI) as a framework for modeling and analyzing cognition. We will consider fundamental ideas about the nature of intelligence and cognition in general. Topics include the exploration of computer models for concepts such as remembering, learning, inference and affect. We will introduce classical symbolic robots, modern robotics, symbolic and connectionist modeling, and dynamic systems.
Background knowledge in Logic is not an official requirement, but will be extremely helpful. If you are not sure whether your logic skills are sufficient, please check with the instructor.
Clark, A. (ed.) (1997). Being There: Putting Brain, Body, and World Together Again. MIT Press (Bradford book). This edition of the textbook is freely available from the library website (Scott Library) and can be downloaded there.
Several papers (online, Moodle)
Final Essay 40%
Two Quizzes 50% (each 25%)
Response papers (weekly): 10%
In the response papers you will very briefly summarize an assigned reading and then either offer a brief criticism of the reading or ask critical questions about it. An example of what is expected will be provided. Both quizzes will be in-class, and will consist of multiple choice and short answer questions. The take home final will consist of a final essay. Penalties of missed assignments are left to my discretion.
Lecture and class discussion
After completing this course, students should be able to:
- Understand in some depth the main topics in contemporary analytic philosophy of Artificial Intelligence, and different views regarding the role of artificial intelligence (AI) as a framework for modeling and analyzing cognition, including: different views of the role of classical symbolic robots, modern robotics, symbolic and connectionist modeling, and dynamic systems.
- Evaluate others’ arguments and to create their own.
- Develop the ability to write analyses of arguments
- Know about several contemporary figures in the philosophy of Artificial Intelligence.
- Academic Honesty
- Student Rights and Responsibilities
- Religious Observance
- Grading Scheme and Feedback
- 20% Rule
No examinations or tests collectively worth more than 20% of the final grade in a course will be given during the final 14 calendar days of classes in a term. The exceptions to the rule are classes which regularly meet Friday evenings or on Saturday and/or Sunday at any time, and courses offered in the compressed summer terms. - Academic Accommodation for Students with Disabilities
