Can a Computer Think? Algorithms, Minds, and Moral Agents

Content: Can a computer have a mind? Can a computer be conscious? These are not sci-fi questions anymore—they are real issues shaping our world. In this lecture, we will briefly explore how these fundamental questions connect four key areas of philosophy. We will start with Philosophy of Mind—What makes something conscious and intelligent?—examining famous thought experiments like the Turing Test and the Chinese Room. Next, we will explore Philosophy of Technology—How is AI changing how we live, work, and relate to each other? Then we will dive into Political Philosophy—Who controls AI and decides its power?—connecting today's AI debates to classic ideas about surveillance and social control. Finally, we will tackle Moral Philosophy—If machines can think, should they be held responsible for their actions? And what do we owe them? While we will not have time to delve deeply into every theory, students will walk away with essential philosophical tools to think critically about AI's role in their future—whether they are studying computer science, business, law, or anything else.

Who could attend: Students from any discipline interested in thinking critically about AI's role in their future.

Date: 16 October 2025

Time: 09:40 - 11:30

Place: Scola 323