Abstract

The media often discuss artificial neural networks like ChatGPT or Amazon's Alexa, and policymakers grapple with regulating emerging technologies. However, the precise nature of "artificial neurons" remains ambiguous. Is this term to be understood merely metaphorically or does it refer to physical entities resembling biological neurons? While commonly understood as mathematical nodes in AI, the discussion extends deeper, particularly with the advent of neuromorphic engineering. This paper discusses whether artificial neurons are indeed neurons and what the potential implications are. Specifically, the paper addresses the question: I discuss three typesAre artificial neurons functional analogs of biological neurons? of artificial neurons against the background of the two main theories of biological function, viz. Causal Role and Selected Effects Theory. My thesis contends that while artificial neurons lack the morphological structure of biological neurons, certain types, especially those in neural circuits, exhibit functional parity, and thus can be considered functional analogs.