Can a computer reason

Normally no, but if programmed well, the programmer can create a series of "IF" "THEN" "BUT" statements, for example....
Tom wants his computer to shut off, automatically, when he doesent use it so he programs it to shut off under these conditions

IF, in the hour the computer is only active for 10% of the time, THEN Run shut-down.exe, BUT, if the computer is active, at any-time in the hour. wait at least 30 Minuets before shutting down.


This example is a tad confusing, but essentialy... the computer was set, to work under condidtions


QUICK FACT: games that contain atificial inteligince (AI) charicters, are powerd by If Then But Statements.