Professor Bainbridge has some really harsh words words for a guy who programs poker bots (programs that can play poker online unattended):
What is it about the computer industry that turns people into (or maybe just attracts) lying, cheating, thieving little shits like Gabriel? Unable to compete with real people, they have to hide behind their computers. (He's probably got a virtual girlfriend too.)
The professor sure has a mean streak in him. I think that Gabriel (see LA Times article) is pretty cool. He’s advancing the state of artificial intelligence. The story made it clear that the poker bots don’t perform very well against good human competition. Unlike chess, which is strictly about logic, poker involves a great deal of psychology. As Mr. Spock would say, the article is fascinating.
Wow, given Dr. Bainbridge's animosity I assumed that the poker bots referred to here were the stupid online gambling places that are leaving commentspam everywhere. Those are the only ones worthy of such contempt. I agree, what Gabriel's doing is pretty cool.
I can understand why the cheating aspect of it is irritating, and that such things could harm that industry. But it's selfish motivations like that which can lead to *real* innovations in technology. As a college professor of mine was quick to point out: online credit card billing/payment was perfected by adult entertainment sites.
Posted by: R. Alex | June 12, 2005 at 07:33 PM
Does this mean a redefinition of "dead-pan face" or "poker face"?
"Bot face" perhaps?
Posted by: probligo | June 14, 2005 at 04:20 PM