Symbol Grounding in Computational Systems: A Paradox of Intentions |
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Authors: | Vincent C Müller |
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Affiliation: | (1) Department of Philosophy & Social Sciences, Anatolia College/ACT, P.O. Box 21021, 55510 Pylaia, Greece |
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Abstract: | The paper presents a paradoxical feature of computational systems that suggests that computationalism cannot explain symbol
grounding. If the mind is a digital computer, as computationalism claims, then it can be computing either over meaningful
symbols or over meaningless symbols. If it is computing over meaningful symbols its functioning presupposes the existence
of meaningful symbols in the system, i.e. it implies semantic nativism. If the mind is computing over meaningless symbols,
no intentional cognitive processes are available prior to symbol grounding. In this case, no symbol grounding could take place
since any grounding presupposes intentional cognitive processes. So, whether computing in the mind is over meaningless or
over meaningful symbols, computationalism implies semantic nativism. |
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