In Part V of the Discourse on Method, Descartes outlines two “very certain” tests for distinguishing between humans and machines:
If there were machines which bore a resemblance to our bodies and imitated our actions as closely as possible for all practical purposes, we should still have two very certain means of recognizing that they were not real men. The first is that they could never use words, or put together signs, as we do in order to declare our thoughts to others. For we can certainly conceive of a machine so constructed that it utters words, and even utters words that correspond to bodily actions causing a change in its organs. … But it is not conceivable that such a machine should produce different arrangements of words so as to give an appropriately meaningful answer to whatever is said in its presence, as the dullest of men can do. Secondly, even though some machines might do some things as well as we do them, or perhaps even better, they would inevitably fail in others, which would reveal that they are acting not from understanding, but only from the disposition of their organs. For whereas reason is a universal instrument, which can be used in all kinds of situations, these organs need some particular action; hence it is for all practical purposes impossible for a machine to have enough different organs to make it act in all the contingencies of life in the way in which our reason makes us act.
As an essay answer the following prompt:
Are Descartes’ tests as certain as he thinks they are? Are the abilities to use language and solve complex problems sufficient to distinguish between a human mind and a machine? If these two tests are not sufficient on their own, what additional tests are necessary? Do such tests exist?
In your introductory paragraph clearly formulate a strong thesis statement – your thesis statement should be a concise declarative sentence that serves as the conclusion to the argument your paper is about to present.
The body of your paper should serve as plausible support for the conclusion you have drawn with your thesis statement. Remember, while you are arguing for YOUR position, you are not using your own anecdotal evidence – be sure to utilize the assigned readings and other materials found on BrightSpace.
Clearly explain the theory of MIND which most closely relates to your thesis statement.
Provide citations from appropriate sources to support all of your claims.
Identify all prominent philosophers associated with any view you mention.
Clearly explain or define any technical terms you use.
Your concluding paragraph should not introduce any new information. It should reassert your thesis statement as the conclusion to your argument in light of the evidence the body of your paper has provided.
Your paper must be 7-10 typed pages, 1” margins, double spaced, 12pt Times New Roman font. A cover page is not required, but if you include one it does not count towards the total page requirement. All quotations must be cited – either in footnotes or within the text in parentheses, whichever you choose be consistent.
GRADING:
Your paper will be graded on 1) clarity, 2) organization, and 3) quality of philosophical argument.
Carefully follow the instructions on the prompt.
