[net.misc] Perceptrons and neural simulation

lew@sri-unix (12/07/82)

I had Minsky's "Perceptrons" recommended to me on the basis that it
contained a summary of neural simulation work. Seeing a similar
indication of the book's contents given by Jerry Leichter, I would like
to comment.

I found the book to be entirely based on abstract algebraic concepts
(mappings etc.) Nerve models were mentioned only on one page, and
here the suggested model bore little relation to the usual concept of
nerve function. The "nerve" was a timer which had a ramp function
terminated by receipt of a signal, thus serving as an analog memory
device. The author stated that this was just an offhand suggestion
and perhaps neurologists would find it interesting.

I was completely flabbergasted by this experience. My question is,
Who is crazy? me? Minsky? the world? - All of the above, I guess.

Lew Mammel, Jr. ihuxr!lew