Views on Computationalism: Clark Vs. Searle

Views on Computationalism: Clark vs. Searle

Computationalism: the view that computation, an abstract notion of materialism lacking semantics and real-world interaction, offers an explanatory basis for human comprehension. The main purpose of this paper is to discuss and compare different views regarding computationalism, and the arguments associated with these views. The two main arguments I feel are the strongest are proposed by Andy Clark, in "Mindware: Meat Machines", and John Searle in "Minds, Brains, and Programs."

Andy Clark strongly argues for the theory that computers have the potential for being intelligent beings in his work "Mindware: Meat Machines." The support Clark uses to defend his claims states the similar comparison of humans and machines using an array of symbols to perform functions. The main argument of his work can be interpreted as follows:

p1. The brain is constructed like a computer, since both contain parts which enable them to function.

p2. The brain, like a computer, uses symbols to make calculations and perform functions.

p3. The brain contains mindware similarly as a computer contains software.

c. Therefore, computers are capable of being intelligent beings.

I find, however, that Clark's conclusion is false, and that the following considerations provide a convincing argument for the premises leading to this conclusion, starting with premise one: "the brain is constructed like a computer, since both contain parts which enable them to function."