Computing Reviews
Today's Issue Hot Topics Search Browse Recommended My Account Log In
Home Topics Titles Quotes Blog Featured Help
Search

Cover Quote: December 1979

Mr. Babbage, consciously or unconsciously, mixes up mind and matter in a way which is sure to puzzle less philosophic readers. The workings of the intellect and the workings of his machine are always assumed to be conducted on the same principle. Of his engine, we have seen, he speaks habitually as if it were a thinking, reasoning being. It is, to say the least of it, a little startling to hear ‘that mechanism had been taught not only to foresee, but also to act upon that foresight.’ Note again the marked way in which he always asserts the superiority of mechanism over mind. His automaton is better than a living player at all games of skill. He has, indeed, the grace to confess that the first move must be made by human agency…But that first move is all that is needed.



- Anonymous
The Christian Remembrancer, 1866
Send Your Comments
Contact Us
Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.   Copyright 1999-2024 ThinkLoud®
Terms of Use
| Privacy Policy