# Strong AI Strong AI is the thesis that an appropriately programmed computer doesn't merely *simulate* a mind—it literally *has* a mind. It genuinely understands, has [[Intentionality]], and possesses consciousness. This contrasts with Weak AI, which claims computers are useful tools for studying cognition but don't actually think. [[John Searle]] coined this distinction in "Minds, Brains, and Programs" (1980). Searle's [[Chinese Room Argument]] targets Strong AI: a computer manipulating symbols according to rules has syntax but lacks semantics—no understanding, no meaning. Defenders argue this sets an unfair bar (the "systems reply") or that understanding might emerge from sufficient complexity. The debate connects to the [[Symbol Grounding Problem]], [[Computational Theory of Mind]], and modern questions about whether LLMs truly understand language. ## Strong vs Weak AI | Strong AI | Weak AI | |-----------|---------| | Computer *has* a mind | Computer *simulates* mind | | Genuine understanding | Useful tool/model | | Consciousness possible | No consciousness claim | | Searle's target | Searle accepts this | ## References - Searle, John. "Minds, Brains, and Programs" (1980) - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_room ## Related - [[Chinese Room Argument]] - [[John Searle]] - [[Artificial Intelligence]] - [[Intentionality]] - [[Symbol Grounding Problem]] - [[Computational Theory of Mind]]