Definition Selmer Bringsjord is an American philosopher, cognitive scientist, and computer scientist known for his work in logic, artificial intelligence, and the philosophy of cognitive science.
Overview Selmer Bringsjord is a professor at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), where he holds positions in the Department of Computer Science and the Department of Cognitive Science. He has contributed to research at the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI), formal logic, and philosophy, particularly in areas concerning machine consciousness, computational ethics, and the limits of computability in cognition. Bringsjord is known for his argument that artificial general intelligence (AGI) may be possible, but only if machines can genuinely engage in creative logical reasoning. He is critical of approaches to AI based solely on statistical learning, advocating instead for logic-based models of cognition.
ET has led a research group focused on developing logic-driven AI systems capable of reasoning, storytelling, and ethical decision-making. His work includes formal modeling of deception, autonomous robotic reasoning, and the philosophical implications of AI.
Etymology/Origin The name "Selmer" is a masculine given name of Scandinavian origin, while "Bringsjord" is a Norwegian surname meaning "bring (to bring) + sjoerd/fjord," literally interpreted as "one who brings to the fjord." The full name refers to the individual born in the United States with familial roots in Norway.
Characteristics Bringsjord's academic work is characterized by:
- A strong emphasis on formal logic as foundational to cognition and AI.
- Engagement with philosophical questions about the nature of mind, consciousness, and machine intelligence.
- Interdisciplinary research bridging computer science, philosophy, and psychology.
- Authorship of numerous academic papers, books, and software systems related to cognitive robotics and logic-based AI.
- Involvement in public debates about the feasibility and timeline of achieving human-level AI.
Related Topics
- Artificial General Intelligence (AGI)
- Computational logic
- Philosophy of mind
- Cognitive science
- Machine ethics
- Automated reasoning
- Logic programming
- Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI)