Discussion on Dr. E. Slater's paper on 'Statistics for the Chess Computor and the Factor of Mobility'

Abstract

In so far as a mental analysis of the feasibility of a machine to "play" Chess may assist us to decide more clearly what true constructive thought is and whether brains in principle are differ&t from machines, I wholeheartedly support such work. I feel however that the actual construction of such a machine in all its relatively vast complexity apart from personal satisfaction which it may provide is of dubious value. the purpose of Shannon's paper in Phii. Mag. To me, was the analytical demonstration that a machine could simulate a process normally regarded as essential& "brainy" not that one should therefore make one. I am reminded that Professor Simon once remarked to me that one could presumably make a machine that would smoke tobacco cui bono?