Computers Quote by Charles Stross
“The programmers have another saying: 'The question of whether a machine can think is no more interesting than the question of whether a submarine can swim.'”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Discussing AI, Charles Stross, 2015
Comparing machine thought to submarine swimming highlights absurdity of focusing on irrelevant capabilities.
In simple terms: Debating AI thought is as pointless as asking if a submarine can swim.
Focus on meaningful AI impact.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- AI ethics debates
- technology policy
- public understanding
- education
- media coverage
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What truly matters in AI development?
- How can we assess AI usefulness?
May dismiss genuine AI progress.