|
Thursday, November 04, 2004
Flavier: The parable of the computer
By Sen. Juan Flavier
IT WAS the first time such an unusual machine was ever brought to the barrio. Many of the farmers flocked to the traveling exhibit out of curiosity and awe. They equated the imposing equipment with the modernization of the big city and western countries.
Many would not even dare go near the machine. Even when the operator invited them, most shield away and kept their distance.
"This is nothing more than an artificial brain," explained the operator. "Except that it has a much larger memory and can process data faster than any human being."
The crowd gasped in admiration and wonder.
"Do not let the machine overwhelm you," added the operator. "It is only as good as the person handling it. Now, let me show you what the computer can do. As a simple demonstration, tell me when you were born and this will say what day that was. Any volunteers?"
A farmer on the first row said, "June 23, 1935 is my birthday."
The operator punched some keys and immediately the monitor flashed - "Wednesday."
The crowd murmured a chorus of appreciation and excitement. Others gave their birthdays and in all cases, a rapid response of the correct day was registered.
A naughty farmer requested that his birthday be entered into the computer as February 31, 1930. The others snickered in anticipation of putting one over the machine. In a split second, the screen flashed - "Nonsense."
The crowd was even more impressed.
"By the way," the operator annotated in an even voice, "this computer can also answer your questions. Any kind at all. Just state it and I will key it in."
A youngish farmer raised his hand and asked, "Please tell me where my father is." He tried to be serious but couldn't help a giggle because his father had died five years earlier.
In a flash, the computer responded - "Your father is in Laguna Lake fishing this very moment."
"Impossible!" blurted out the young farmer. "My father passed away five years ago."
"There must be a malfunction," said the operator. "Can you please rephrase your question?"
The young farmer thought for a moment and asked, "Can you tell me where my mother's husband is?"
The operator entered the question and out came the quick reply - "Your mother's husband died five years ago. But your father is in Laguna Lake fishing this very moment. In fact, he just caught a large tilapia!"
(November 4, 2004 issue)
Write letter to the editor.Click here.
Join the Sun.Star message board.Click here. |
|
[return to top]
[home]
[network page]
|
LOCAL NEWS
BUSINESS
OPINION
SPORTS
LIFESTYLE
FEATURE
|
