Syntax and Sentience: The Linguistics of Machine Intelligence

This ethnographic capstone project explores the linguistic nuances of intelligence in human-machine discourse within an interdisciplinary classroom setting. With artificial intelligence becoming ubiquitous in our daily lives, this research seeks to uncover how individuals refer to and conceptualize machine intelligence. Conducted through participant observation in a Special Topics course titled Human and Machine Intelligence, this study examines the terminology and conceptual framings in regards to non-human intelligence. Common terminology used by computer science and philosophy students includes "artificial intelligence," "emergent intelligence," and "machine intelligence". Initial findings indicate a divergence in how students conceptualize key terms, with emerging patterns in word choice and discourse shaping broader discussions on the nature of intelligence. Data collection involves field notes, Canvas discussion analysis, and audio recordings, with ethical considerations for student consent guiding methodological decisions. By mapping classroom interactions and linguistic preferences, this research aims to identify shifts in discourse and engagement with evolving artificial intelligence narratives. This study contributes to linguistic ethnography by demonstrating how disciplinary perspectives shape language usage in discussions of machine intelligence. Findings will inform debates on human-machine interactions and the evolving semantics of intelligence. Future work will incorporate data to assess shifts in discourse over time.