Position Paper #4: Are There Decisions Computers Should (Not) Make?

For this position paper, I would like you to evaluate the following argument:

Certain computers (i.e., computers running certain computer programs) can make rational decisions. That is, they can determine the validity of arguments and ascertain the probable truth-values of the premises of the arguments, and they can consider the relative advantages and disadvantages of different courses of action to determine the best possible choices. For example, there are computers that can diagnose certain diseases and (presumably) recommend appropriate medical treatments. Suppose for the sake of argument that some of these computers can make decisions (and recommendations) on certain important matters concerning human welfare. Suppose further that they can regularly make better recommendations that human experts on these matters. Therefore, these computers should make decisions on these important matters concerning human welfare.

• Your position paper should be approximately 

  1-2 typed pages, double-spaced (i.e., about 250-500 words), and single-sided.

• Please bring 5 copies to class on the due date.

• This paper only needs the title "Position Paper #4", your name, the date, and the course number (410, 498, or 510) at the top of the page.

• For general assistance with writing (including my preferred method of paper preparation and format, as well as advice on grammar), see my website "How to Write".

• For general guidelines on how to evaluate an argument, see the newsgroup posting in "Subject: POSITION PAPER 2 -- ANALYSIS & GRADING" or the website "Critical Thinking Core Concepts" (also see its table of contents).

  DUE AT THE BEGINNING OF LECTURE, THURSDAY, APRIL 8