The International Symposium on Creating Brain-Like Intelligence took place in February 2007 in Germany, gathering prominent scientists from diverse backgrounds to explore the emerging field of brain-like intelligence. Despite significant advances in neural networks, computational and artificial intelligence, our understanding remains limited, particularly in mimicking even basic sensory capabilities of humans and animals. The symposium aimed to identify major obstacles and pathways toward a scientific understanding of the autonomy, flexibility, and robustness of intelligent biological systems. It emphasized the need to break down traditional disciplinary boundaries, as new principles often emerge at their intersections. Key themes emerged during discussions, including the triad of structure, dynamics, and environment; the environment's role as an active partner in shaping systems; adaptivity across learning, development, and evolution; and the integration of internal and external worlds in brain-like intelligence. Participants recognized the importance of serving their respective communities with research outcomes while also encouraging collaboration across fields, which requires effort and a proactive approach to interdisciplinary work.
