Artificial Intelligence: A Very Short Introduction

Margaret A. Boden

Artificial intelligence is used in a variety of settings, including our homes, workplaces, schools, movie theaters, art galleries, and, last but not least, the Internet. For biologists, psychologists, and linguists, the results of artificial intelligence have proved beneficial in gaining a new perspective on memory, learning, and language processes.

Artificial intelligence has sparked and honed philosophical discussions on the nature of the mind, intellect, and the singularity of human beings as a concept. Considering whether software could ever be truly intelligent, creative, or even conscious, Margaret A. Boden reviews the philosophical and technological issues raised by artificial intelligence in this Very Short Introduction. She also demonstrates how the quest for AI has improved our understanding of how human and animal minds are possible.