Would it be theoretically possible to make a robot or computer that could think? Why or why not?

Answer 1

scientists are certainly working on it. it's a whole branch called artificial intelligence dedicated towards developing robots and computers that can think. they're have been some breakthroughs, sony's robo pets, for example.

Answer 2

in theory a computer works faster then a human brain but less "complete" it can only do what is programed to. but in some game programs are made (or written) in a way that lets them gather info about the player and feed that info into a math problem which will adjust the difficulty settings. in other words if a computer can only do what it is programed to do it could in theory still be programed to learn and think.

the biggest thing holding this "thinking machine" back is that it would need to be programed with how to gather and use ALL the info in the WORLD. but is that really a big deal. when it comes to complex things bigger is better. bigger is ez'er to make and maintain.
think about this.
the fastest nerve impulse run through the brain at 3.75 miles per minute (going from a end of the brain to the other in about 1/440th of a sec.) computers however use electric impulses which could traval 400miles in about 1/440th sec think about that! a computer 400miles wide, by 400miles long I think that would be enough space don't you ;)

but u then have to ask if we could then theoretically power such a computer and keep it cold enough to work. well maybe if we had a dyson sphere.

Answer 3

To answer this question, you would first have to define "think". Many computers already perform most of the functions normally associated with thinking. In fact, many of the human differences from computers are due to factors *other* than thinking. People are unpredictable, in part, because they do stupid things on occasion.

On the other hand, computers are not able to actually create anything yet. Until they are, humans will have at least one ability that computers don't. Will it be possible to make a creative computer? I don't believe so, but perhaps some day some inventor will prove me wrong.

Answer 4

It all depends on how you would categorize or describe "thought".

If you believe thought is nothing more than electrical impulses sent through your brain to decipher the world around it then...sure, some day there will be machines that will be able to do that.

But if you believe thought is something more artistic, in that it involves more of a harmonious equilibrium of spirit and mind, then no.

Better question: Do you think that a machine will ever be capable of writing the best novel, painting the most beautiful picture, composing the most enveloping sonnet...?

Or is thought deeper than electricity?

Answer 5

It's impossible. Robots aren't living things and don't have brains, therefore they cannot think. They are programmed with the information they 'know' and other information is irrelevant to it.

Answer 6

I agree with TheoDorkx.

To Sleeplessin . . . Hey! I'm over 30 (34 & still young; I'll have you know) and I plan to be around for a loooong time.

Answer 7

yes theoretically only, no because then what's the difference between man & machine ?

Answer 8

If someone tells you that something technical is impossible then they will almost certainly be proven wrong. If not today then probably in your life-time if you are under 30.

Answer 9

Yes, but it would be alive like us. We are basicly computers, because we think and compute the world around us.

Answer 10

Defently.
If you think we where "made"
what makes you think in the long period of history that we wont make.
Robot or something else its all a matter of time.