Pigeons solve problems in the same way as artificial intelligence

Researchers at Ohio University and the University of Iowa have discovered that pigeons use a problem-solving strategy reminiscent of artificial intelligence.

The study, published in the journal iScience, reveals details about the cognitive processes of these seemingly humble birds, demonstrating their ability to perceive. Exceptional abilities in classification tasks.

Brandon Turner, a psychology professor at Ohio State, explained that his research has produced “compelling evidence suggesting that the mechanisms that guide pigeon learning are very similar to the basic principles of pigeon learning.” Machine learning Modern and artificial intelligence.

The study consisted of presenting pigeons with a variety of stimuli, including lines of different widths, concentric rings, and segmented rings. Pigeons had the task of categorizing these stimuli by clicking a button on the left or right side, with correct answers giving them a reward.

Through repeated trial and error, the pigeons showed a significant improvement in their performance, which led to an increase in their correct responses. From 55% to 95% In one of the simplest tasks.

It is worth noting that when the same tests were conducted using artificial intelligence, The AI ​​also showed a reduction in errorsIt looks like a bathroom.

According to Turner, pigeons use a form of learning known as associative learning, which associates two items or actions, much like dogs associate sitting with receiving a reward.

This type of learning is a habit It is considered very primitive To handle tasks such as visual classification. However, the bathroom proved to suit their needs perfectly, which confirms From the inside.

In specific types of tasks, this approach allows pigeons to outperform humans by demonstrating their unique problem-solving abilities.

Turner notes that humans, when faced with similar tasks, often struggle to formulate rules or look for patterns to understand challenges. On the other hand, pigeons resort to A A more direct and instinctive approachWhich allows them to excel at certain types of tasks.

Turner highlighted the irony that humans often celebrate the creation of artificial intelligence as evidence of their intelligence, while downplaying pigeons as unintelligent animals.