算法含义的哲学探析

Philosophical Analysis of the Meaning of Algorithm

算法历史悠久。在当代,算法已成为一个专门指称计算机程序中所使用的逻辑方法的专门用语,是人工智能的精髓。算法一词的源头,可以向古代的"算术"追溯。当代算法科学研究的进展,推进了对算法概念的理解,但多是采用不同的方式对算法加以描述。罗宾·希尔基于哲学视野,认为算法是一种有限的、抽象的、有效的、被强制命令并按照规定完成某一特定目的的复合控制结构。哲学的思维方式不仅在某种程度上引导了AI的研究,而且在该研究域推进了科学与哲学的结合。

Algorithms which has a long history that can be traced back to ancient “arithmetic”has become a special term to refer to the logical method used in computer programs, and the quintessence of artificial intelligence. The advances in algorithm science have promoted the understanding of algorithmic concepts, but they are mostly described in different ways. Robin Hill, from a philosophical point of view, believes that the algorithm is a limited, abstract, effective, mandatory, and complex control structure for a specific purpose. The philosophical way of thinking not only guided AI research to a certain extent, but also promoted the combination of science and philosophy in this research field.