Recently, a supercomputer named "Watson" beat two champion contestants from the TV show Jeopardy. The computer answered questions on a wide variety of topics and was able to make wagers or sit out when it did not know the answer. For many viewers, it seemed that this computer was not only able to retrieve information but to reason in a manner very similar to the way humans do, leading some to wonder whether intelligence and reasoning are programmable skills, and to ponder the following:

Questions

1. Computers can retrieve data and calculate probabilities based on preprogrammed information. Using the characteristics of life provided in Section 2.1, list features of living organisms that computers lack.
2. Although chess-playing computers can respond to moves made by a human partner, to be autonomous, computers will need to be able to respond to many more stimuli. Do you think it is possible for programmers to predict all the different stimuli computers will need to be able to respond to in the future?
3. A key feature of human intelligence is the ability to learn. Retrieving stored data and learning differ in the same way that memorizing some biological definitions or steps in a biological process differs from really understanding the definitions and processes.
What happens when you memorize a definition for an exam and the exam asks a question that uses a definition in a slightly different way?
4. Who do you think is better prepared to apply his or her knowledge to a new situation, a student who memorizes or a student who understands?
5. Consider your answers to questions 1-4 and explain why the original statement bolded above sounds right, but isn't.

Section 2.1

Describe the properties associated with living organisms.
• Living organisms contain a common set of biological molecules and are composed of cells. They are able to grow, metabolize substances, reproduce, and respond to external stimuli. In addition, living organisms can maintain homeostasis and evolve.