This is a strong statement, but describes the underlying current of our work. Over twelve years ago, Professor Marvin Minsky , at MIT , in a casual conversation with me, described how people often explore through artificial intelligence their own weaknesses and concerns. He then ended with a joke, asking what could he say of me, being interested in thinking. Professor Minsky's observation highlights the inner desires of many who work in the field, and sheds light on our true intentions. For more than fifteen years, we have struggled to define our work.
Problems arise from our ignorance of thinking, learning and intelligence.
So, we often find ourselves trapped in circular definitions. It is difficult to define what we do not know. I contrast intelligent behavior to a stupor, arguing one is the exclusive opposite of the other. By comparing what illustrates intelligent behavior to what appears dull, insensible or lethargic, I decipher meaning from the rhetoric. Finally, as you will read, the definition includes words such as life, spirit and sensitivity.