The Cartesian Test for Automatism1

Author: Erion G.J.

Source: Minds and Machines, Volume 11, Number 1, February 2001 , pp. 29-39(11)

Publisher: Springer

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Abstract:

In Part V of his Discourse on the Method, Descartes introduces a test for distinguishing people from machines that is similar to the one proposed much later by Alan Turing. The Cartesian test combines two distinct elements that Keith Gunderson has labeled the language test and the action test. Though traditional interpretation holds that the action test attempts to determine whether an agent is acting upon principles, I argue that the action test is best understood as a test of common sense. I also maintain that this interpretation yields a stronger test than Turing's, and that contemporary artificial intelligence should consider using it as a guide for future research.

Keywords: Artificial intelligence; common sense; Descartes; Turing Test

Language: English

Document Type: Regular paper

Affiliations: 1: Medaille College, 18 Agassiz Circle, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA

Publication date: 2001-02-01