EMBODIED SYSTEM LIFE

System life is concerned with societies of living beings, i.e. humans, animals, plants, and artifacts, i.e. computers, robots, machines in general, software, and virtual creatures. In this position paper we will focus on the functions of embodiment. It turns out that in addition to the fact that embodied systems are physical entities, there are important consequences of embodiment for category learning, concept acquisition, cognition, and communication. We will present a number of case studies that illustrate the concept of embodiment. We will then outline a research program designed to investigate the principles underlying system life, and present a theoretical framework. We will conclude by speculating about how to achieve higher levels of intelligence.

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