Artificial intelligence (AI) has never been about developing a computer-based system which can literally "think", although that's been the popular perception, not helped by the generations of scifi writers who've written about androids (cf Data in Star Trek NG).

Until a different type of computer is developed which works on the same principles as the human brain, I doubt if any computer will ever come with in a bull's roar of true self-awareness ... empathy? Huh!

Thanks for that CapK, nice to hear from one who should know. It has also provided me with an excuse to use a signature line I filched from someone in Usenet.



"Your depression will be added to my own" -- Marvin of Borg