Which of the following most accurately represents Searle's criticism of the brain-as-computer metaphor, as that criticism is described in the passage?
Show Hint
- The metaphor is not experimentally verifiable.
- The metaphor does not take into account the unique powers of the brain.
- The metaphor suggests that a brain's functions can be simulated as easily as those of a stomach.
- The metaphor suggests that a computer can simulate the workings of the mind by using the codes of neural transmission.
- The metaphor is unhelpful because both the brain and the computer process information.
The Correct Option is B
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question asks for a summary of Searle's main objection to the "brain-as-computer" metaphor. We need to find the option that best captures the essence of his critique.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Searle's core criticism is that the metaphor is purely functional. It focuses on information processing (inputs and outputs) and ignores the underlying physical substance. For Searle, the substance matters immensely. He argues that the brain's specific biological makeup gives it "causal powers" to produce consciousness and understanding, powers that the silicon and wires of a computer lack. The metaphor is bad because it implies that all you need for thought is the right program (software), regardless of the hardware it runs on. Searle says the hardware (the wet, biological brain) is crucial and unique.
\[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{(A) Searle's argument is philosophical and logical, not experimental, so verifiability is not his main criterion.} \\ \bullet & \text{(B) This is the most accurate summary. The "unique powers" are the semantic, conscious, and causal properties that Searle claims arise from the brain's specific biology, which the computer metaphor completely ignores by focusing only on information processing.} \\ \bullet & \text{(C) This misuses the stomach analogy. The point is not about ease of simulation but about the difference between simulation and reality.} \\ \bullet & \text{(D) This is part of what the metaphor suggests, but it's not Searle's criticism of it. His criticism is why this suggestion is wrong.} \\ \bullet & \text{(E) This is the opposite of his view. The metaphor is tempting because they both process information, but he finds it unhelpful (and wrong) for deeper reasons—namely, that the brain does more than just process information; it understands.} \\ \end{array}\]
Step 3: Final Answer:
Searle's fundamental objection to the brain-as-computer metaphor is its failure to account for the specific, unique biological properties of the brain that he believes are necessary for genuine consciousness and understanding. Option (B) captures this idea perfectly.
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