4 ms·
f(x) = x > 0 ? 1 : 2 If you give this function a positive integer, it chooses returns 1; otherwise it chooses to return 2. This is what I think choice is.
by barrkel 10y ago
f(x) = x > 0 ? 1 : 2
If you give this function a positive integer, it chooses returns 1; otherwise it chooses to return 2. This is what I think choice is.
g = () =>
f1 = (x) => x > 0 ? 1 : 2
f2 = (x) => x > 0 ? 10 : 20
f = f1
return (x) =>
if x > 100
f = f2
f(x)
f = g()
This is a function that can change its mind, and choose different results when it's given different input.
I see this as isomorphic with what you call choice, and I believe that any distinction you see is in your imagination. You don't know what the algorithm feels like on the inside; for all you know, a machine executing these instructions feels like it's got free will. You can't prove otherwise.
- sgt101 10y agoHello, I think what I regards as choice and free will includes autonomy - which is the ability to decide to pursue and, by implication, create goals. I think that there is type 1 autonomy where an entity is free to undertake goals according to "choice" of the sort that I believe you are outlining above. Essentially a type 1 autonoma can create and modify plans like the code you have written down above. A type 2 autonoma can decide to do, or not do things. It can write the code you have written, if it decides to go on a functional programming course.... To me this is the difference between the weather and a sentient entity. I think of computer programs in the same category as I think of the weather, but I see sentient entities in a different category. I don't exclude machines from this category now, but I see all the machines that I have had experience of a part of category 1. How a machine could be described that fits into category 2 eludes me - and everyone else I think.