Artificial intelligence

Examples of Artificial Intelligence
Lt. Commander Data.
Data
The Think tank robot.
Think Tank robot
Landru.
Landru

Artificial intelligence is a term coined by 20th century Human computer engineers to describe hardware and software sophisticated enough to reason independently, form new conclusions, and alter its own responses. At the time the term was coined, such programs were largely theoretical. The yardstick for determining whether a computer was operating an artificial intelligence was then the Turing test, first devised by early computer scientist Alan Turing in 1950.

The android Data, built in the early 24th century, may be an example of a true artificial intelligence according to this definition. So might certain other androids, notably, Ruk, an artifact of the Old Ones of Exo III. Data was equipped by his creator, Noonien Soong, with a positronic brain, based on an advanced neural-net design. He was eventually deemed an independent lifeform, with the rights and responsibilities of other life, lending weight to the notion that he qualifies as an artificial intelligence.

The question of whether machines can achieve the capacity for self-awareness or emotional feeling (sentience) remains controversial. (TNG: "The Measure of a Man"; Star Trek Generations)

Most of the computer systems in use by the Federation and similar powers would probably not qualify; they are very powerful, but nevertheless remain essentially data storage, retrieval, and coordination devices.

Even certain highly advanced alien computers may or may not meet this criterion. Landru ruled Beta III for almost 6,000 years, but Kirk and Spock deduced its nature in less than a day. (That its subjects did not is probably a consequence of the near reverence in which they held Landru.)

In late 2367, Geordi La Forge wanted to attend a seminar about artificial intelligence on Risa. (TNG: "The Mind's Eye")

Of course, the computers in use by the Federation may be significantly more powerful than we are shown. Since the stories have always been about Human, and to a lesser extent alien, interaction, the computers serve a role as storytelling springboards, more than characters, with the notable exceptions of Data and the Doctor.

See also

• Self-aware programs
• Self-aware machines

External Links

• Artificial Intelligence at Wikipedia