Science of Intelligence

Science of Intelligence, a joint Cluster of Excellence of Technische Universit?t Berlin and Humboldt-Universit?t zu Berlin, is focussed on gaining a better understanding of intelligence in all its facets: What fundamental laws and principles underlie different forms of intelligence - be it artificial, individual or collective intelligence? The scientists from a wide range of disciplines - from psychology, robotics and computer science to philosophy and behavioural research - want to use their research findings to create new intelligent technologies. The methodological strategy of the cluster is a novel approach to intelligence research, in which all findings, methods, concepts and theories must be incorporated into technological artefacts, such as robots or computer programs. These artefacts serve as a common "language" that enables scientific exchange across disciplinary boundaries.

"Despite intensive research into all areas of intelligence, our knowledge is still patchy and incoherent. Science of Intelligence aims to fill these gaps and create new connections in order to fundamentally advance our understanding of intelligence," says Oliver Brock, Professor of Robotics at Technische Universit?t Berlin and spokesperson for the cluster.

The cluster's synthetic research approach enables the various research results to be linked and scrutinised. The insights gained in this way integrate all the disciplines involved in intelligence research and thus bring the identification of fundamental principles of different forms of intelligence within reach. "Findings that are consistent across several of the disciplines involved provide valuable clues to the principles of intelligence we are looking for. Contradictions, on the other hand, will lead to new questions," explains Oliver Brock.

Structurally, SCIoI is focussing above all on the intensive promotion of young researchers. Alongside the existing "Science of Intelligence" Master's programme, which provides prospective intelligence researchers with the necessary knowledge from computer science, psychology and other disciplines, promising young scientists are offered early independence through the opportunity to apply for their own projects. The scientists involved are thus creating a unique research and training environment in the greater Berlin area that is highly attractive to young, highly qualified intelligence researchers.