Is there such a thing as a “self” when we are referring to robots? Think about it.

Image: Swarming Robots

Source: Motherboard

New lines of research in animal intelligence are focusing on recognition of the “self” as a key indicator of intelligence, so if robots can “self-organize”, are they “selves”?

Here’s Google’s definition of self: a person’s essential being that distinguishes them from others, especially considered as the object of introspection or reflexive action.

Hmmmm? Reflexive action. That could be where we are now in some really cool robotics. Let’s take a look at the state of this extraordinary technology. The next videos are a little mind-blowing. Here’s an incredible one from some scientists doing great research at Harvard University via YouTube. See what you think about the subject of “self”…

Via: Harvard University 1

Now take a look at a great explanation of what you just saw, as explained by scientists from the MIT on YouTube.

Via: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) 2

Crazy possibilities here today on Ever Widening Circles folks! Stay tuned for more wonder every day here.

Stay open, curious, and hopeful!

~Dr. Lynda

20 minutes

A Tour of the Wonders of Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is quickly becoming a reality, and most of us barely understand what it means. No wonder there is a lot of fear and a shortage of wonder on the topic. Today we change all that with an expert guide!

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Notes:

  1. “Designing Collective Behavior in a Termite-Inspired Robotic Construction Team.” YouTube. Harvard University, 13 Feb. 2013. Web. 24 Apr. 2015. <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LFwk303p0zY>. ↩
  2. “Small Cubes That Self-assemble.” YouTube. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), 3 Oct. 2013. Web. 24 Apr. 2015. <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6aZbJS6LZbs>. ↩

Published: April 24, 2015 | Article Tags:

Lynda Ulrich

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Dr. Lynda is a dentist, artist, global traveler, and philanthropist who looks for potential and shares it with the world. Hear her latest conversations with thought leaders on the Ever Widening Circles Podcast--new episodes every Thursday!