Abstract:
Philosophy should seriously take into account the presence of computers. Computer enthusiasts point towards a new Pythagoreanism, a far reaching generalization of logical or mathematical views of the world. Most of us try to retain a belief in the permanence of human superiority over robots. To justify this superiority, Gödel’s theorem has been invoked, but it can be demonstrated that this is not sufficient. Other attempts are based on the scope and fullness of our perception and feelings. Yet the fact is that more and more can be computer simulated. In order to secure human superiority over robots, reference to the realm of human relations and attitudes seems more promising. Insights provided by philosophy of dialogue can help. They suggest an ultimate extension of the Turing test. In addition, it seems that in order to justify the belief in human superiority one must rely on the individual experiences that indicate a realm that is not merely subjective. It makes sense to call it religious.
Keywords:
computer science, robot, Gödel’s theorem, digitalization, Pythagoreanism, context, Church’s Thesis, philosophy of dialogue, gratitude, prayer
How to cite:
Krajewski, Stanisław. “Can a Robot Be Grateful? Beyond Logic, Towards Religion.” Eidos. A Journal for Philosophy of Culture 2, no. 4(6) (2018): 4–13. https://doi.org/10.26319/6912.
Author:
Stanisław Krajewski
Institute of Philosophy, University of Warsaw
Krakowskie Przedmieście 3, 00-927 Warsaw, Poland
stankrajewski@uw.edu.pl
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