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October 30, 2005
Eliza
In speaking with Eliza, I noticed many things. First of all, whenever I mentioned any form of the word "you", Eliza would always respond with "we were discussing you, not me." There are also other key words and phrases that seem to prompt Eliza with other programmed responses. With more complex sentences, it seems that Eliza will respond with part of your sentence in the form of a question, or she will say "tell me more."
When Eliza came out in the 1960's, I can see how people believed that they were actually talking to a computer. It is hard to imagine though, as I have witnessed that technology is very advanced and always outdoing itself. However, it must have been quite the experience to "talk" to Eliza when the program first came out!
As others have mentioned, there are similar programs today on Instant Messenger, like SmarterChild. I have also discovered one for SantaClaus. I think this is a very interesting concept. Through "talking" with him, you can create a wish list, play games and create a shopping list. I wonder how kids react to "talking" to Santa Claus; it must be quite the experience.
-Jessica F.
Posted by lcisfaria at October 30, 2005 03:01 PM