- Programming Language
- 1) Theories of Human Mental Processes Can Be Expressed in Programming LanguagesIt [the information-processing revolution] has introduced computer programming languages as formal ["mathematical"] languages for expressing theories of human mental processes; and it has introduced the computers themselves as a device to simulate these processes and thereby make behavioral predictions for testing of the theories. (Simon, 1979, p. ix)2) The Advantages of LISPLISP is now the second oldest programming language in present widespread use (after FORTRAN). . . . Its core occupies some kind of local optimum in the space of programming languages given that static friction discourages purely notational changes. Recursive use of conditional expressions, representation of symbolic information externally by lists and internally by list structure, and representation of program in the same way will probably have a very long life. (McCarthy, quoted in Barr & Feigenbaum, 1982, p. 5)3) When a Machine Might Begin to Have a Mind of Its OwnAlthough it sounds implausible, it might turn out that above a certain level of complexity, a machine ceased to be predictable, even in principle, and started doing things on its own account, or, to use a very revealing phrase, it might begin to have a mind of its own. (Lucas, quoted in Hand, 1985, p. 4)
Historical dictionary of quotations in cognitive science. Morton Wagman. 2015.
