The goal of this course is to examine current research in animal cognition with a view to understanding how philosophical and scientific questions about animal minds interact. Topics may include whether nonhuman animals can feel pain; whether they can suffer; whether they have episodic memory; whether they are conscious. We will also consider ethical implications of the answers we find to the above questions.
4
UnitsOptional
Grading1
PasstimeNone
Level LimitLetters and science
CollegeExcellent professor!
There are some professors who you know knows their stuff just by listening to them speak. He is one of them. And it didn't even take 10% of his ability teaching this class. Lots of readings on relevant topics in AI basics and Phil of AI; never had more enjoyable lectures than his. Choice of final paper (topic of your relevant interest) or exam.
Course grade was based on one of three grading options: 2 midterms at 50%, two midterms at 25% & final at 50%, or final at 100%. Professor Allen is very passionate, this course was just difficult to succeed in due to the complex nature of the subject and the difficult exams (avg on midterm 1 was 64% w/ no curve, no partial credit). Read.