Philosophy of Computer Science: Online Resources

Final Exam

Do any three of the following. Write about 250–500 words for each answer.

This is a closed-book, closed-notes, closed-neighbor, open-mind exam.

No books, notebooks, food, beverages, or electronic devices of any kind are permitted in the exam room.

1. Analyze and evaluate the following argument
   (note that it is similar to, but not exactly the same as, the argument in Position Paper #1):
   Natural science is the systematic observation, description, experimental investigation, and theoretical explanation of natural phenomena. Computer science is the study of computers and computing. Therefore, computer science is not a natural science.

2. Analyze and evaluate the following argument:
   Suppose that computers running certain computer programs can make rational decisions (at least in the sense of outputting values of functions that serve as a basis for decision making). That is, suppose that they can determine the validity of arguments and ascertain the probable truth-values of the premises of the arguments, and that they can consider the relative advantages and disadvantages of different courses of action, in order to determine the best possible choices. (For example, there are computers and computer programs that can diagnose certain diseases and (presumably) recommend appropriate medical treatments; there are computers and computer programs that can prove and verify proofs of mathematical theorems; and there are computers and computer programs that can play winning chess.) Suppose for the sake of argument that some of these computers and computer programs can make decisions (and recommendations) on certain important matters concerning human welfare. Suppose further that they can regularly make better recommendations than human experts on these matters. Therefore, these computers should make decisions on these important matters concerning human welfare.

3. What is computer science?

4. Can computers think?

5. Choose either (a) or (b):
   1. In your opinion, what is the most fundamental or important question in the philosophy of computer science?

   2. What is a question that interests you in the philosophy of computer science that we did not discuss this semester?

   Pose the question, explain why you think it is important or interesting, and present your answer to it.