Author: James T. Walker
Date: 06:08:17 07/06/01
It seems that some people continually come up with reasons why computers are not GM strength. But if you look at the whole picture it's hard to deny. I am constantly reading here that "a single game means nothing";"A tournament like in Argentina means nothing";"Playing a GM who is not familiar with computers means nothing";"Beating low rated GMs(2500) means nothing";"The GM did not play 'anti-computer chess'" etc. etc. etc. What do all these things put together mean? Last year I think it was some Spanish IM's that allowed a computer in their tournament and all were embarrased. Now it's Argentina and the same result. Now a computer has to beat a 2600 GM to prove it's GM strength although there are many 2500 level GMs who could not do this. Why are people constantly trying to put artificial requirements on computers that are not required of humans? I believe one thing is already proven. If humans play computers just like any other human then computers are definitely at GM strength right now. Also if you want to set up the computer for a fall, it can be done if you have enough control over the conditions. Some people want computers to be "bullet proof" before they will declare computers GM level. Just another requirement that humans are not subjected to. Some point at specific computer weaknesses and say "see that, it can't be a GM if it does that". Rebel took on some GMs in the GM Challenge and played them fairly even. Can an IM do that? If he can he will soon be a GM. The only difference is a human has the opportunity to play in FIDE tournaments and qualify for the title but computers do not. This is done in tournaments and not matches where one prepares specifically for the opponent. So that's where I stand. Given a fair chance for the title I believe there are several programs that could achieve the GM title. Of course it's only my opinion and it means nothing except that I've finally taken a stand. I've walked into the "Computers can be GMs" camp (if given the opportunity). Jim
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