At 12:04 PM 3/16/2005, Charles Brown wrote:
is there a reason why a network of computers cannot exhibit similar
characteristics? (and now we can link this thread to jimD's godel
one! ;-)).
--ravi
^^^^^
CB: So far, except in a Matrix fantasy, it takes extensive human mediation
to plug computers into culture. It's like chimps can learn some language,
but no chimps have learned sign language on their own initiative. There is
lots of human intervention when chimps learn language.
I can't state an abstract principle as to why a Matrix couldn't be realized
in real life.
But how do you know we're not already living in the Matrix?
Kelley
--
http://www.inkworkswell.com
"Be a scribe! Your body will be sleek, your hand
will be soft. You are one who sits grandly in your
house; your servants answer speedily; beer is poured
copiously; all who see you rejoice in good cheer.
Happy is the heart of him who writes; he is young
each day."
--Ptahhotep, Vizier to Isesi,
Fifth Egyptian Dynasty, 2300 BC
