Artificial intelligence: freedom of thought

Let's face it, artificial intelligence (AI) is a confused subject with the industry currently exaggerating its role, purpose and capabilities. We are all still scratching our heads wondering if the world will have to endure a society of robots with their associated "robot rights" and, of course, there's the fear that they may render humanity pointless. I want to continue with my own personal journey through what I understand AI is and how we might indeed one day create an artificial intelligent entity, something which I hope we don't live to regret. Nevertheless, my rhetoric has been consistent regarding what, today, we understand AI is and, that is, it's nothing more than clever programming and smart technology. But, in my endeavour to possibly create such an artificial intelligent entity, I suggested we use Cartesian dualism (René Descartes and George Campbell) as some sort of template where we separate the mind and body.