China reveals an artificial brain the size of a monkey: Introducing Wukong, the supercomputer operating on electric pulses
For decades, scientists have been striving to replicate the intricate functions of the human brain. Recently, a team of Chinese researchers has made a significant advancement by developing a supercomputer that emulates the cognitive processes of a monkey. This supercomputer, known as Wukong, is not just a typical computer – it is an extraordinary experiment: a neuromorphic system engineered to operate using electrical impulses, mirroring the functioning of a living organism.
### A machine inspired by biology
Contrary to conventional data processing using binary code, Wukong utilizes Spiking Neural Networks (SNN), a model that mimics the electrical signal transmission process among mammalian neurons. Housing over 2 billion artificial neurons and 100 billion synapses, it exhibits similarity to a monkey’s brain. Unlike a regular neural network that processes information continuously, Wukong functions with intermittent electrical bursts, replicating the dynamics of the cerebral cortex more accurately. As a result, this system not only computes but also “perceives” and “reasons” in a manner closely resembling biology.
### The role of supercomputers in science
For researchers, Wukong stands as a remarkable simulation tool, enabling the recreation of neuronal processes previously only observable in biological laboratories. In the realm of artificial intelligence, the expectations are even higher. By replicating a brain’s architecture, these neuromorphic systems could propel AI towards a more human-like reasoning capability. It transcends mere pattern recognition training, inching towards the realm of general artificial intelligence.
### A boundary between technology and philosophy
Beyond technical strides, Wukong poses profound inquiries regarding the interplay between machines and biology. To what extent can a computer imitate the cognitive functions of a living organism? Could such a system learn from experiences, formulate intuitions, or even manifest rudimentary consciousness? Scientists acknowledge the extensive journey ahead. The brain’s complexity is not solely numerical but also hinges on the plasticity and chemical interactions among neurons. Nonetheless, Wukong signifies a significant milestone: the realization that neuromorphic computing has transitioned from a mere concept to a tangible prototype. According to its creators, Wukong’s objective is not to supplant the brain but to investigate it. In doing so, it may offer a fresh perspective on understanding the essence of cognition.
