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Re: 2008-05-03: Thought Experiments
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Robert
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Re: 2008-05-03: Thought Experiments - 05-03-2008, 03:34 PM

If your computer time is correct for your location then the countdown timer on the ToeQuest homepage will be correct. That might be the better time to go by if you're unsure of your timezone conversion.

I must disagree with Dave regarding thought experiments. They may not produce any real data but I believe their value lies in their ability to clarify existing data. For example, imagine a computer that can flawlessly respond to questions in Chinese with answers, also in Chinese. This computer easily passes the Turing test. One might think that the computer understands the Chinese language. But if you were aware of the Chinese Room thought experiment you might be convinced to think otherwise.

Unfortunately I am trapped in my office of my day job and nobody will let me out. I can occasionally get access to the Internet to send out a message or two without my keepers knowing. I'll try to pop in to the chat off and on but will be unable to attend full-time. However, once I escape I'll post a transcript of the chat for all to see.

Oh, Happy Birthday Dave!

--Robert


"I'm going on a TOE Quest!"
  
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