[GoLUG] LLMs can't reason

[Steve Litt]

On Mon, 9 Jun 2025 19:05:04 -0700
Kyle Terrien <kyle at terren.us> wrote:

> On Mon, Jun 09, 2025 at 09:05:26AM +0100, kc-golug at chadwicks.me.uk
> wrote:
> > This is interesting in stating that understanding and reasoning as
> > to why (= innovation) is not computable even with Quantum computers
> > of the future.
> > 
> > "https://youtu.be/biUfMZ2dts8?si=3DpXpPfn3-htuPHKPJ"  
> 
> I question some of his assumptions: mainly around the 12 minute mark,
> he seems to deny or wave away spiritual (supernatural) reality.
> However, it is interesting how he arrives at the same conclusion using
> a purely naturalist argument.

I could easily make the argument that human beings can't reason. Humans
use different mental tools than LLMs, but I would say that for
questions asked in text form, LLMs' reasoning is well above the
reasoning of the median human.

Let's compare the LLM to the guy next door on his afternoon's third can
of King Cobra, rathern than comparing it to Isaac Newton or Albert
Einstein.

SteveT

Steve Litt 
Spring 2023 featured book: Troubleshooting Techniques of the Successful
Technologist http://www.troubleshooters.com/techniques