Star Trek: the Next Generation “the Measure of a Man” Essay Example
According to my interpretation of Hasker (1983), the perspective on the mind and body problem demonstrated by Piccard in the synopsis from Star Trek: The Next Generation was Dualism. Picard affirms that, "Data has rights among them the right to refuse to undergo an experimental procedure such as this." In this statement, Picard attributes both physical and mental characteristics to the robot (Data). This viewpoint aligns with Hasker's assertion that, "Dualism recognizes the significant presence of physical and mental properties in human beings..." (p.).
5). According to Hasker (1983), the mind and body are distinct entities but still continuously interact with each other (Dualism Interactionism). This aligns with Piccard's belief that Data possesses an artificial mind and a mechanical physical body that may seem disconnected but somehow functions as one. On the other hand, Maddox dismisses Dat
...a's mental capabilities and refers to him as an "it" rather than a "him." Maddox is unconcerned about the possibility of reassembling Data since he views him as a mere material object or self-operating computer. This perspective corresponds to Hasker's Materialism view that humans are material beings, with the brain functioning as a self-operating computer. However, the question remains whether man-made computers can truly think or if they can only simulate thoughts.
Hasker (1983) states that for a rock to become an altar, it necessitates the presence of a living soul that worships at it (p. 57). In addition to Maddox's criteria of intelligence, self-awareness, and consciousness, there are other qualities required to be recognized as a "person." These qualities include the capacity for moral judgments, language usage, creativity displayment, possession of free will, and most importantly, having a soul.
As per Genesis 2:7 New International Version in the Bible, God formed man from material and then breathed into him the breath of life which bestowed upon him the status of a living soul.
The creation of robots through technology does not encompass the immaterial element necessary for human person-hood, which can only be bestowed by God. This directly addresses the Judge's query regarding Data's possession of a soul and its applicability to machines. As robots were not granted life by God, they lack living souls, thus relieving us of moral obligations towards them. Consequently, I disagree with the Judge's decision. Maddox's statement that Picard acted in an "irrational and emotional" manner is also valid since Data lacks a soul and cannot be murdered. Lastly, it is worth acknowledging that artificial intelligence may eventually become viable as previously deemed impossible technologies are now commonplace in our everyday lives.
According to MIT's Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory director Rodney (1990), the timeline for building self-reproducing intelligent robots is not a question of possibility but rather inevitability. However, despite mankind's ability to create artificial intelligence, these robots will always be confined by the programming implemented by their software developers and will never possess a personal worldview like humans do. They are devoid of a soul. Hence, it is vital to approach this realm with caution and reverence, as Scriptures affirm that humanity was intricately designed (Psalms 139:14 NIV). References: Hasker, W.
(1983). Metaphysics: Constructing a World View. (1st ed.). Downers Grove: IL: InterVarsity Press. Rodney A.
The book "New approaches to robotics" in Cambrian intelligence by B. (1990) is published by The MIT Press in Cambridge, MA.
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