Research: A New Theory Changes the Thinking Behind Creating Robots and Smart Machines

A New Theory Changes the Thinking Behind Creating Robots and Smart Machines
Knowledge@W.P. Carey (02/13/08)
The school of Connectionism postulates that the human brain learns when neurons link experiences and understandings, and that the development of artificial intelligence hinges on emulating this capability with computers. But W.P. Carey School of Business professor Asim Roy has challenged these long-cherished notions in an academic paper where he argues that while connections between neurons are necessary, the system still requires organization by a controller. Roy presents a theory that elements of the brain are controlled by other elements, and has partly validated it by demonstrating that Connectionist brain-like learning systems are guided by higher-level controllers, in defiance of the Connectionist view that they employ only local controllers at the neuron level. "What I did was structurally analyze Connectionist algorithms to prove that they actually use control theoretic notions even though they deny it," says Roy, adding that he used neuroscientific evidence to support his argument. The design of various types of robots will eventually be affected by the rethinking of human learning and brain function that Roy's paper has engendered. Roy cautions, however, that his theory may not effectively change computer operations for decades.
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