Reflections on a theory of artificial intelligence

In the following pages, Bruno Latour’s conception of modern epistemology is analyzed. Although Latour considered modernity to be at an end, the chapter shows how the modern analytical approach is still active in the contemporary world. Research on artificial intelligence (AI) is no exception. Despite the fact that some experts and practitioners continue to promulgate a modern and reductionist conception of technology, the chapter show how that approach does not stand the test of time and how it leads to misunderstandings and misconceptions about AI and human cognition. By reflecting on the theoretical assumptions underlying neural networks, currently the state of the art in AI research, the paper proposes an alternative approach to epistemological reductionism. These assumptions bring Latour's call about the constructed and hybrid character of phenomena back to the centre of the debate. This approach will prove fundamental in laying the groundwork for a philosophical reflection on AI.