Are We Unique: A Scientist Explores the Unparalleled Intelligence of the Human Mind - Hardcover

Trefil, James

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0471155365 ISBN 13: 9780471155362

Publisher: Wiley, 1997

Synopsis

Acclaim for Are We Unique?

"In his masterful book, Trefil shares with readers some of the most recent research in neurology, evolution, primate research, computer science, and philosophy. Trefil's prose is lively and engaging." --Boston Globe

"Trefil's race through the science that could explain the brain is highly readable." --Sunday Times of London

"In a provocative essay, Trefil argues that the science of artificial intelligence is progressing rapidly. Machines, he theorizes, will one day develop a new kind of intelligence and self-awareness. So, maybe the real question is: Are we ready?" --San Diego Union-Tribune

"A highly readable and engaging treatment of a fascinating question. Trefil makes a case for human uniqueness while at the same time celebrating the achievements of creations ranging from lobsters to neural nets. A provocative and enjoyable book." --Daniel L. Schacter Professor and Chair of Psychology, Harvard University author of Searching for Memory

About this title

Review

The question posed in the title of James Trefil's exhilarating book conjures countless other questions regarding what makes us human--among them, what are our roles and responsibilities on Earth, and what constitutes intelligence? In his commentary on the cognitive abilities of animals--from mammals to crustaceans--and artificial intelligence, Trefil presents a witty, compelling argument in support of the human mind's superiority. In a manner less deliberately analytical than that employed by the likes of I.B.M.'s Deep Blue, the author cites high art and mankind's capacity for intuition, among other examples, as proof of the power and nearly limitless creativity of the human brain. He doesn't downplay the importance of computers or pit man against machine; rather, Trefil shows his respect for technology and suggests that its presence will lead to a greater understanding of intelligence and the human condition.

From the Publisher

A critically acclaimed and successful popular science author presents a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the latest scientific thinking about the controversial question: whether the human mind is unique or whether a machine could be built that would be as intelligent and "alive" as people are? Trefil offers a broad survey of prominent competing viewpoints, explaining each of the major arguments and tracing their evolution. What exactly human thinking is, how different human thinking is from animal thinking, and what makes people conscious are among the issues covered.

Edition details

• Publisher: Wiley
• Publication date: 1997
• ISBN 10: 0471155365
• ISBN 13: 9780471155362
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 256