Which symbol grounding problem should we try to solve?

TL;DR

This paper critically examines different approaches to the symbol grounding problem, arguing for a redefinition centered on explaining and reproducing the behavioral and functional aspects of meaning in artificial agents.

Contribution

It challenges existing conditions like 'zero semantic commitment' and proposes a rethinking of the grounding problem focusing on behavior and function.

Findings

Floridi and Taddeo's condition cannot be fulfilled

Re-thinking the problem emphasizes behavioral and functional explanations

Proposes a new perspective on the role of goals in grounding

Abstract

Floridi and Taddeo propose a condition of "zero semantic commitment" for solutions to the grounding problem, and a solution to it. I argue briefly that their condition cannot be fulfilled, not even by their own solution. After a look at Luc Steels' very different competing suggestion, I suggest that we need to re-think what the problem is and what role the 'goals' in a system play in formulating the problem. On the basis of a proper understanding of computing, I come to the conclusion that the only sensible grounding problem is how we can explain and re-produce the behavioral ability and function of meaning in artificial computational agents