The machine and the materiality of the body: AI and embodied knowledge

Computer programmes with artificial intelligence (AI) have been widely implemented into many aspects of everyday life. The paper critically examines the potential implications of this process that is leading to an AI oriented society. In doing so, the paper particularly focuses on the significance of the material body in relation to the digital information technologies. It is generally considered that computer programmes themselves do not have a physical body. It is, however, crucial to understand the different forms of intelligence between immaterial computer programmes and material organic bodies to comprehend the transformative changes of the human-machine relationship. Drawing on the fields of medical practices, artistic performances, and robotics, the paper discusses the limitation of algorithmic thinking and addresses the significance of artistic skills and craftmanship (embodied knowledge) associated with ‘having a body’. The paper concludes with a discussion of Simondon’s philosophy and his focus on the complex co-evolutionary relationship between the human and the machine in order to raise questions about the best practice for the biological-social concretization of the future AI society.