Simulated thinking, according to Jordan Hall, refers to the process whereby individuals or systems engage in a representation of cognitive activity that lacks the true depth, insight, or creativity inherent to genuine thought. It is characterized by algorithmic processing and pattern recognition that mimic human reasoning and decision-making but are essentially devoid of authentic intellectual engagement or understanding. This ersatz cognition often leverages massive data sets and sophisticated computational models to produce outputs that appear thoughtful, yet are fundamentally constrained by their inability to transcend pre-defined parameters and limitations. In essence, simulated thinking is a facsimile of mental activity, offering the veneer of intelligence while missing the essence of conscious deliberation and emergent insight that defines true thinking.

See also: artificial intelligence, complex system, feedback loop, game theory, possibility space