regarding Fil's concern about the definition of "machine" I have deliberately used "artefact" in this discussion to avoid this
confusion about machines, automata etc. However I think a contemporary definition of "machine" should include the contemporary
forms of mechanism - if Babbage had got the difference engine working we would agree that it is a machine in the classical sense
but it performs the same function as an electronic calculator.
And to question Ken's point - whether we say "machine" or something else, it seems to me that this discussion is about future
possibilities. As Chuck points out, neural networks and other biologically analogous computers use the same "mechanisms" as
conventional data processing machines but their programming gives them potential to become machines that can learn from their
environments. So I would rather speculate on what a "learning machine" could do for us (or itself?) than worry about definitions
or current states of the various arts concerned.
Henrik Gedenryd's (1998) description of complex thinking in the context of design is that it takes place when a person is engaged
in a task in an environment. So machines definitely have two of the three ingredients already in place.........
Gedenryd, H. (1998) "How Designers Work - making sense of authentic cognitive activities" PhD thesis, Lund University, Sweden
http://www.lucs.lu.se/People/Henrik.Gedenryd/HowDesignersWork/index.html
best wishes from Sheffield
Chris
****************************
Professor Chris Rust
Head of Art and Design Research Centre
Sheffield Hallam University
Psalter Lane, Sheffield, S11 8UZ, UK
0114 225 2738
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www.chrisrust.net
>snip--
It also depends on the definition of "machine". Strictly speaking, a machine is something like "A mechanical device that
transmits, modifies, or changes the direction of force in order to help people do work." In modern times, the term has come to
have a variety of more varied associated definitions.
By the 'classic' definition that I was taught one-upon-a-time, a computer isn't a mechanical device, so it isn't a machine. And
software certainly isn't a machine.
What was originally meant by 'machine'?
Cheers.
Fil
--
Filippo A. Salustri, Ph.D., P.Eng.
Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering Ryerson University 350 Victoria St, Toronto, ON, M5B 2K3, Canada
Tel: 416/979-5000 ext 7749
Fax: 416/979-5265
Email: [log in to unmask]
http://deed.ryerson.ca/~fil/
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