In an article written in 1950, computing pioneer Alan Turing proposed a way of testing how well a computer could imitate a human being. This test, which he called the imitation game, has become known as the Turing Test and, 30 years ago in November 1991, a competition, the Loebner Prize, was first set up to test artificial intelligence programs using Turing’s test.
The test involved someone asking a computer and a real person questions through which they tried to work out which was which. A computer would pass the test if it was able to convince the judge that it was a human.
If you are at the Northampton Square Library during November, why not have a look at our Alan Turing book display on Level 5 to browse and borrow some of the print books. Or, if you are a distance learner, or simply prefer to read books online, have a look at the selection of e-books below:
Films, documentaries and other programmes are other great ways to learn more about a subject – you can find DVDs on CityLibrary Search (narrowing content type to “DVD” will help you find them more easily). Otherwise, if you are based in the UK, have a look at our playlist on Box of Broadcasts where we have selected films and TV programmes for you to watch, learn from, and enjoy.
However you would like to interact, there are many subjects to discover in CityLibrary.