How Neural Nets Work

This witty experiment with artificially engineered neural cells provides a great glimpse into how neurons can respond to external stimuli to send out signals. It's not quite "intelligence" as the article exaggerates, but it absolutely demonstrates an essential component of human intelligence.

Can Computers Learn Natural Langauges?

Apparently so: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/07/110712133330.htm

And if the ability to use information for creative ends, as I suggested in an earlier post, defines "knowledge", then this story suggests that computers can acquire knowledge.

What remains to be seen, though, is whether can be aware that they have knowledge... and I think that probably won't happen until our technology is sophisticated enough to run android systems (see previous post on embodiment: http://thinkodynamics.blogspot.com/2011/06/i-human.html).