In this course we have discussed many topics related to being human - mind, body, soul etc

In this course we have discussed many topics related to being human - mind, body, soul etc.  With this activity we will examine what it means to be a person. Observe the video here if you have not previously done so on Artificial Intelligence and Personhood. Take notes on this video, and pay particular attention to the discussion regarding the hosts proposition that he has no proof that his brother Harry is not a robot...  

If we an android was created named Adam -- that looks exactly human and seemingly demonstrates a wide range of emotion and behaviors that seem human, then the questions that arise are

• (1) Is Adam a human/person?
• (2) Should he have the rights of a human or any rights?
• (3) Given a scenario where you had to send someone into a dangerous situation in order to prevent a major catastrophe such as an explosion (potentially killing hundreds), but the individual sent in would suffer a certain and painful death -- who would you select?:
• (a) James a married father of two young children.
• (b) Mary who is single with no children.
• (c) Adam who is a synthetic android who displays human behavior, emotion, experiences pain, and is one of a kind.

Discussion Instructions: 

1. Posts should be spread over several days -- NOT ALL IN ONE DAY
2. You should make at least 4 posts: 1 original post and 3 responses to classmates' posts.
3. Posts should be more than "great post" or "good job" etc. - posts should be complete ideas/thoughts.
4. Be sure to address the questions asked and/or follow the instructions provided.