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Philosophy of Computer Science

An Introduction to the Issues and the Literature
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Philosophy of Computer Science by William J. Rapaport explores the philosophical questions underlying the field of computer science. The book examines key topics such as the nature of computation, the question of whether computers can think, and the ethical implications of artificial intelligence. It provides a thought-provoking analysis suitable for students and professionals interested in the intersection of philosophy and technology.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$8999
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you're fascinated by the intersection of technology and thought, seeking to explore philosophical questions about the nature of computation, algorithms, and artificial intelligence. Through a philosophical lens, it delves into the theoretical foundations and ethical considerations of computer science, offering a thought-provoking journey for those interested in both technology and philosophy.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

A unique resource exploring the nature of computers and computing, and their relationships to the world.

Philosophy of Computer Science is a university-level textbook designed to guide readers through an array of topics at the intersection of philosophy and computer science. Accessible to students from either discipline, or complete beginners to both, the text brings readers up to speed on a conversation about these issues, so that they can read the literature for themselves, form their own reasoned opinions, and become part of the conversation by contributing their own views.

Written by a highly qualified author in the field, the book looks at some of the central questions in the philosophy of computer science, including:

  • What is philosophy? (for readers who might be unfamiliar with it)
  • What is computer science and its relationship to science and to engineering?
  • What are computers, computing, algorithms, and programs? (Includes a line-by-line reading of portions of Turing’s classic 1936 paper that introduced Turing Machines, as well as discussion of the Church-Turing Computability Thesis and hypercomputation challenges to it)
  • How do computers and computation relate to the physical world?
  • What is artificial intelligence, and should we build AIs?
  • Should we trust decisions made by computers?

A companion website contains annotated suggestions for further reading and an instructor’s manual.

Philosophy of Computer Science is a must-have for philosophy students, computer scientists, and general readers who want to think philosophically about computer science.

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781119891901

Publisher: John Wiley and Sons Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 02 February 2023

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Wiley-Blackwell

Audience: Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 31.0mm

Width: 175.0mm

Height: 249.0mm

Weight: 748g

Pages: 528

About the Author

William J. Rapaport is CSE Eminent Professor Emeritus in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering and an affiliated faculty member emeritus in the Departments of Philosophy and of Linguistics at the University at Buffalo, The State University of New York. He is a recipient of the Barwise Prize of the American Philosophical Association, the Covey Award of the International Association for Computing and Philosophy, and the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching.

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