Philosophy of Artificial Intelligence: Minds, Machines and Meaning (Level 6)

• Credit value: 30 credits at Level 6
• Convenor: Dr Alex Grzankowski
• Assessment: a 1500-word essay (40%) and 2000-word essay (60%)

In this interdisciplinary module we explore the complex interplay between philosophy, cognitive science and artificial intelligence (AI). We will delve deep into the fundamental questions surrounding the nature of mind, consciousness and intelligence, while critically examining the implications of advancements 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 be encouraged to engage critically with classical philosophical texts as well as contemporary debates in the philosophy of AI. The module is designed to be accessible to students from diverse academic backgrounds, including philosophy, psychology, computer science and neuroscience. By fostering interdisciplinary dialogue, we aim to equip you with the analytical tools and critical-thinking skills necessary to navigate the complex intersection of minds, brains and machines in the twenty-first 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:

• understand fundamental philosophical questions regarding the nature of mind, consciousness and intelligence, and their implications for AI
• demonstrate an in-depth understanding of classical and contemporary philosophical texts that address the emergence of minds from physical systems and the nature of consciousness
• undertake thorough critical analyses of arguments for and against the possibility of machine intelligence and evaluate the implications of these debates for AI development
• critically challenge philosophical theories and cognitive science principles to assess current advancements in AI and their potential to replicate or simulate human cognitive processes
• understand and communicate complex ideas about mind, consciousness and AI at an appropriately abstract level, drawing on various interdisciplinary sources
• construct cogent arguments integrating perspectives from philosophy, psychology, cognitive science and AI, synthesising information to offer novel considerations about minds and machines.