What is the name of a computer program that imitates human thinking with complex rules?

An expert system is a computer program designed to mimic human reasoning and decision-making processes based on complex rules and a vast knowledge base. These systems use if-then rules to solve specific problems within a particular domain, often providing solutions that a human expert would offer. The effectiveness of an expert system lies in its ability to interpret and process large amounts of data, applying logical reasoning similar to that of a human expert.

While artificial intelligence is a broader term that encompasses various technologies enabling machines to perform tasks typically requiring human intelligence, including learning and reasoning, expert systems specifically focus on rule-based problem-solving in defined areas. Neural networks are a subset of artificial intelligence that simulate the way the human brain works to identify patterns and make decisions based on data inputs. Simulated assistants, while capable of performing tasks and providing information, do not necessarily rely on the complex rule-based decision-making framework characteristic of expert systems. Thus, the specific focus on imitating human thought processes through rules defines expert systems.