AI Behaves More Like a Brain than a Database—Cognitive Science's Role in Its Origin Story Helps Explain Why

AI behaves more like a brain than a database—cognitive science's role in its origin story helps explain why

When people think about what ChatGPT or other large language models are doing behind the scenes, it's common to reach for the language of computing. You might assume there is a database or a logical series of steps being executed to provide a response to your query.

AI behaves more like a brain than a database – cognitive science’s role in its origin story helps explain why

How do large language models work? In some ways, like a brain. MF3d/E+ via Getty ImagesWhen people think about what ChatGPT or other large language models are doing behind the scenes, it’s common to reach for the language of computing. You might assume there is a database, or a logical series of steps being executed, in order to provide a response to your query. Picturing AI responses as akin to your computer pulling up a file is a sensible line…

AI behaves more like a brain than a database – cognitive science’s role in its origin story helps explain why

by Michael Hout, New Mexico State University and Arryn Robbins, University of Richmond, [This article first appeared in The Conversation, republished with permission] When people think about what ChatGPT or...