The Limits of Computer Intelligence IV

Fourth and final installment. Argues that brain simulation is impractical due to complexity theory (combinatorial explosion). Conclusion 2: simulating the thought process is more tractable than simulating neurons. Traces human cognitive development from birth — senses, pleasure/pain center, cause/effect experience forming concepts — to show that all higher cognition (language, abstraction, scientific reasoning, insight) arises from associating experiences with feelings. Demonstrates why LISP/PROLOG keyword attributes cannot substitute for experience-based meaning. Analyzes scientific problem-solving (Archimedes, Einstein’s thought experiments, reductio ad absurdum) as requiring genuine concept manipulation. Concludes that a truly thinking computer would require a pleasure/pain center and soft-logic associative mechanisms. Includes bibliography: Searle, Churchland, Penrose, Changeux, George.