Module 3 - Margaret Boden Discussion Flashcards
What is the singularity in AI?
The singularity is a hypothetical future point when AI surpasses human intelligence and can self-improve indefinitely, leading to unpredictable societal consequences.
Why is the singularity important in AI discussions?
It raises concerns about human control over AI, ethical risks, and the impact on society and employment.
Does Margaret Boden believe the Singularity is near?
No, Boden argues that the Singularity is still many decades away, as AI is far from true human-like intelligence.
What are generative systems in AI?
Generative systems are computational models that produce novel and creative outputs, such as art, music, and literature.
How do generative systems differ from simple re-combination?
Unlike basic pattern-matching, these systems introduce elements of originality and innovation, not just rearranging existing data.
What are real-world examples of generative AI?
AI models like DALL·E (image generation), ChatGPT (text generation), and AIVA (music composition) are all generative systems.
What is machine translation?
Machine translation is AI-driven language translation, such as Google Translate.
How does machine translation work?
It relies on statistical models, deep learning, and natural language processing (NLP) to translate between languages.
What is machine thinking?
Machine thinking refers to AI’s ability to process information, reason, learn, and make decisions, mimicking aspects of human cognition.
Does machine thinking mean AI is intelligent?
Not necessarily. AI can simulate problem-solving, but true intelligence and understanding are still debated.
What is information retrieval?
It is the process of finding relevant data from large datasets, such as Google Search or AI-powered databases.
How does information retrieval work?
It uses search algorithms, indexing techniques, and ranking systems to deliver relevant results.
What is an example of AI-based information retrieval?
Search engines, AI-powered legal research tools, and data-mining systems are common examples.
What is combinatorial creativity?
It involves rearranging existing ideas to form new and meaningful combinations
What is an example of combinatorial creativity?
Fusion cuisine (combining different cooking styles), mashup music, or AI-generated poetry mixing styles.
What is transformational creativity?
It fundamentally changes an existing concept to create something entirely new.
What is an example of transformational creativity?
Einstein’s Theory of Relativity, which completely changed physics, or cubism in art.
What is exploratory creativity?
It involves discovering new creative possibilities by expanding boundaries.
What is an example of exploratory creativity?
Scientists exploring quantum computing or artists experimenting with AI-generated art.
Why is Margaret Boden considered an architect of cognitive science?
She was one of the first philosophers to recognize the impact of AI on fundamental philosophy questions about the mind.
How did Boden influence cognitive science?
She helped integrate psychology, philosophy, AI, and neuroscience, founding the School of Cognitive Science at Sussex University.
Why did Boden focus on creativity in AI?
She saw creativity as one of the hardest challenges for AI, making it a key area to test AI’s potential
What does Boden say about AI’s limits?
AI has no theoretical limits but practical barriers exist because human cognition is extremely complex.
Why is replicating human cognition difficult?
The mind is the most complex system we know, and aspects like consciousness and language are still poorly understood.
What does Boden think about computers speaking naturally with humans?
She considers fully natural AI conversations a fantasy for now, as language understanding remains a major challenge.
How does Boden view the future of AI and computation?
She believes our current understanding of computation is not enough—future concepts will be needed to grasp the full complexity of the brain
What does Boden think about the singularity?
She believes it is at least decades away, as AI is nowhere near human-level intelligence
Why is the singularity difficult to predict?
AI does not yet show true reasoning, adaptability, or self-awareness, and progress is slower than many predict.
Does Boden think AI will replace human intelligence?
No, she believes AI will augment human abilities, but not completely replace human intelligence.
