Michael Rescorla - Computational theory of mind

Question 1

CTM (Computational Theory of Mind)

Answer 1

A theory positing that the mind functions similarly to a computational system, particularly a Turing machine.

Question 2

Neurophysical description

Answer 2

Refers to the neurophysiological properties of an organism’s brain or body.

Question 3

Intentional description

Answer 3

Describes mental states in terms of their representational properties.

Question 4

Turing Machines

Answer 4

Algorithm: A step-by-step procedure for solving a problem.
Turing machine: An abstract model of a computing device with infinite time and storage, manipulating symbols.
Memory Structure: Linear arrangement with infinite cells.
Processor: Moves one cell at a time, accessing memory.
States: Finite machine states defining processor behavior.
Operations: Write, erase, move left or right.
UTM (Universal Turing Machine): Can replicate any other Turing machine.

Question 5

Artificial Intelligence

Answer 5

Mechanization of thought, examples include Deep Blue and driverless cars. AI for decision-making, such as Bayesian decision theory.

Question 6

The Classical Computational Theory of Mind (CCTM):

Answer 6

Views mental activity as Turing-style computation. Mental processes compared to Turing machines. Differentiates from physicalist and dualist views.

Question 7

Machine Functionalism

Answer 7

Mental states are understood as functional states within a system. Posits mental activity as implementing a probabilistic automaton.

Question 8

The Representational Theory of Mind (RTM)

Answer 8

Mentalese is compositional. Discusses productivity and systematicity in thought.

Question 9

Neural Networks

Answer 9

Comprise input, hidden, and output nodes. Learning involves adjusting weights. Includes feedforward and recurrent networks.

Question 10

Relation Between Neural Networks and Classical Computation:

Answer 10

Classical computation involves rule-governed symbol manipulation, while neural networks are non-symbolic.

Question 11

Computation and Representation:

Answer 11

Representational mental states have content that represents the world. Discusses intentional realism, eliminativism, and interpretivism.

Question 11

Computational Neuroscience

Answer 11

Uses biologically realistic neural networks to model cognitive phenomena.

Question 12

Computation as Formal

Answer 12

Formal-syntactic conception of computation.

Question 13

Externalism About Mental Content

Answer 13

Mental content is partly determined by factors outside the thinker.

Question 14

Content-Involving Computation:

Answer 14

No rigid demarcation between computational and intentional description.

Question 15

Alternative Conceptions of Computation

Answer 15

Information-processing, function evaluation, and structuralism.

Question 16

Mechanistic Theories

Answer 16

Functional mechanisms and mechanistic explanation.