Philosophy and Computing: An Introduction

Description

Philosophy and Computing explores each of the following areas of technology: the digital revolution; the computer; the Internet and the Web; CD-ROMs and Mulitmedia; databases, textbases, and hypertexts; Artificial Intelligence; the future of computing. Luciano Floridi shows us how the relationship between philosophy and computing provokes a wide range of philosophical questions: is there a philosophy of information? What can be achieved by a classic computer? How can we define complexity? What are the limits of quantam computers? Is the Internet an intellectual space or a polluted environment? What is the paradox in the Strong Artificial Intlligence program? Philosophy and Computing is essential reading for anyone wishing to fully understand both the development and history of information and communication technology as well as the philosophical issues it ultimately raises. 'The most careful and scholarly book to be written on castles in a generation.' - Antiquity

..."a must read....The book is rich in detail, and the catalogue of facts enumerated along the way is well worth having at one's disposal.."-"Ethics and Information Technology, 2001 "An excellent introduction to the new technology that dominates our lives."-"The Philosopher's Magazine "It represents a breath of fresh air amidst the proliferation of books on individual aspects of ICT and its "philosophy.""-"British Journal for the Philosophy of Science "An impressive introductory text. Floridi bravely categorises artificial intelligence, and deals with cyborgs and robots."-"New Scientist "Floridi's helpful, informative and often fascinating book is a welcome arrival. Floridi writes calmly and with good sense on topics that others have hyped mercilessly ."-B. Jack Copeland, The Turing Project, University of Canterbury