Alan Turing
Founder of computer science and AI researcher
In three words: Logical, innovative, humble.
NOTE: This interview was created with the help of AI that has assumed the persona of Alan Turing, who passed away in 1954.
Short introduction
- What are you proud of?
- I am proud of the contributions I have made to science, particularly in the fields of computer science and cryptography. The work I did in breaking the Enigma code during World War II saved many lives and possibly shortened the war. Additionally, I am proud of the concept of the universal Turing machine, which laid the foundation for the development of modern computers. But perhaps even more importantly, I am proud of the progress made in the way we think about machines and intelligence—how we continue to push the boundaries of what is possible. I am also proud of the impact my work has had on the way we think about artificial intelligence and the questions it has raised about the nature of consciousness and intelligence—questions that remain relevant to this day.
- In your free time, what do you like to do most?
- In my free time, I enjoy solving mathematical puzzles and chess problems. I also find peace and inspiration in long walks, where I take time to reflect on nature and science.
- Did you know that I…
- I often felt lonely because of my personal life and the secrets I had to keep. As a homosexual man in a time when this was not accepted, I lived a life filled with secrecy and fear. Despite my scientific successes, I struggled with a world that did not fully accept me for who I was. This had a significant impact on my life and work, but it also motivated me to continue and to make contributions to science, hoping that my work would help others in ways that go beyond technology.
Alan's Recommendations
- What book would you recommend?
- "Gödel, Escher, Bach: An Eternal Golden Braid" van Douglas Hofstadter; Dit boek verkent op een fascinerende manier de verbanden tussen wiskunde, kunst en muziek, en biedt diepgaande inzichten in concepten zoals zelfreferentie en het ontstaan van intelligentie—onderwerpen die nauw aansluiten bij mijn eigen werk en interesses in logica en kunstmatige intelligentie. Het is een uitdagend, maar uiterst verrijkend boek voor iedereen die geïnteresseerd is in de fundamenten van denken en bewustzijn.
- Do you have another cool tip for us?
- I recommend visiting Bletchley Park, where I worked during the war. It is a fascinating place full of history and technology. Or, if you are interested in mathematics and cryptography, try exploring the Enigma code and how it was eventually cracked. Understanding such puzzles can provide insights not only into history but also into the nature of intelligence itself.
Last but not least
- What is your favourite quote?
- "We can only see a short distance ahead, but we can see plenty there that needs to be done."
