Philosophy of Artificial Intelligence: Minds, Machines and Meaning (Level 5)

• Credit value: 30 credits at Level 5
• Convenor: Dr Alex Grzankowski
• Assessment: a 1000-word essay (40%) and 1500-word essay (60%)

This module is an interdisciplinary exploration into the complex interplay between philosophy, cognitive science, and artificial intelligence (AI). In this module we delve deep into the fundamental questions surrounding the nature of mind, consciousness, and intelligence, while critically examining the implications of advances in AI.

We will focus on questions such as:

• What is the nature of consciousness?
• How do minds emerge from physical brains?
• Can machines think?

You will also be encouraged to engage critically with classical philosophical texts as well as contemporary debates in the philosophy of AI.

Minds, Machines, and Meaning is designed to be accessible to students from diverse academic backgrounds, including philosophy, psychology, computer science, neuroscience, and beyond. By fostering interdisciplinary dialogue, this course aims to equip you with the analytical tools and critical thinking skills necessary to navigate the complex intersection of minds, brains, and machines in the 21st century.

Indicative Syllabus

• AI and cognition
• AI and learning
• AI and consciousness
• AI and linguistic meaning
• AI interpretability and alignment
• Using AI in the sciences.

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• demonstrate detailed knowledge of fundamental philosophical questions regarding the nature of mind, consciousness, and intelligence, and their implications for AI
• demonstrate an awareness of classical and contemporary philosophical texts that address the emergence of minds from physical systems and the nature of consciousness
• evaluate the arguments for and against the possibility of machine intelligence and the implications of these debates for AI development.
• apply philosophical theories and cognitive science principles to assess the current advancements in AI and their potential to replicate or simulate human cognitive processes
• engage in interdisciplinary discussions that integrate perspectives from philosophy, psychology, cognitive science, and AI to address complex questions about minds and machines
• develop coherent and well-argued positions on the nature of consciousness and machine intelligence, supported by critical engagement with philosophical literature and scientific research.