Horizons of Science: Thinking Machines (1959)

The film explores the evolution of computing technology and its potential to mimic human intelligence. It discusses how large computing machines are transforming industries by performing complex calculations and making decisions. The film highlights research on “thinking machines,” showcasing experiments like Claude Shannon’s mechanical mouse that learns through trial and error, and a chess-playing program developed for the IBM 704. It emphasizes the differences between human brains and computers, noting that while machines can process information and learn, they lack imagination and true creativity. The film concludes with the possibility of developing intelligent machines and understanding the complexities of the human brain.

Keywords
computers, artificial intelligence, learning machines, Claude Shannon, chess, pattern recognition, human brain, technology, research, decision-making