POP Talks 2025: Bridging the intelligence gap between humans and machines

How do metaphors help humans solve problems — and why can’t AI use them the same way?

In this POP Talk, University of Idaho Professor Bert Baumgaertner explores how metaphorical thinking gives humans a unique edge in reasoning, creativity and problem-solving. Through the Metaphor Abstraction and Reasoning Corpus (MARC) Project, he investigates what our use of language and abstraction reveals about human intelligence — and what even the smartest AI systems are still missing.

Learn more about the MARC Project.

Bert Baumgaertner, Ph.D., philosophy

Baumgaertner explores what it means to know something — from the logic behind belief to the messy systems that shape how knowledge spreads. He works at the crossroads of philosophy, cognitive science and computation, using tools like agent-based modeling to examine questions about language, reasoning and truth in social settings.

Baumgaertner’s research spans everything from the philosophy of mind to the evolution of ideas. By blending modeling and data with deep questions, Baumgaertner helps us understand how knowledge actually works — not just in theory, but in the noisy, polarized world we argue, vote and scroll through every day.

POP Talks: The Power of Possibility

Explore the cutting edge of discovery at POP Talks — Power of Possibility Talks. Eight University of Idaho faculty share research that redefines what’s possible — advancing solutions for global challenges in health, sustainability, technology and society. These talks illuminate the questions shaping tomorrow and the breakthroughs transforming lives today. Annually, POP Talks invite guests for an hour of bold ideas and innovative thinking that push the boundaries of knowledge and impact the world we live in.