Although many people have probably heard of artificial intelligence, we should start with an explanation of this concept. Artificial intelligence (AI) is a kind of created intelligence, as its name suggests. A computer or a computer-controlled device is capable of using this intelligence in problem-solving and completing tasks that are usually associated with intelligent beings.
The birth of artificial intelligence
Artificial intelligence was created by Marvin Minsky, Allen Newell, and Herbert A. Simon in 1955, whereas John McCarthy used this term for the first time. They organized the famous Dartmouth conference in 1956 which marked the rise of the AI field.
Over the years AI has progressed significantly and it can be expected that it will keep doing so.
How does AI work?
Every algorithm involves input and output. Input refers to the selected data that goes into the computer and the algorithm does whatever it is supposed to do with it. After that, we get output or the result of the process. However, AI algorithms are different. Namely, we enter certain data into the computer and we choose the desired result, but it is the computer’s job to find the algorithm. It may start off as a slow process, but well-programmed AI will definitely speed up over time.
Two factors that influence the progress of AI
The progress of artificial intelligence is tightly connected to two factors: the capabilities of the computer, that is, the amount of data it can handle and its processor’s speed, and the capabilities of the programmer, or the person that is creating artificial intelligence. The more powerful a computer is, the better AI will work, and the better a programmer is, the better AI will be programmed.
Back in the day, it was considered impressive to store around 1MB of data into a room-sized computer, but now you can find 512 GB USB sticks! This proves that computer technology will certainly keep on improving immensely, including the AI field.
Moreover, there has been an increase in the number of people interested in computer technology, so this means that more people will work in this field and will contribute to the development of AI.
The impact of AI on modern society
At the moment, there are a lot of examples of how AI can positively impact our society. AI can take over tedious and repetitive tasks in the workplace, it can help us navigate through cities, and it can assist doctors in making diagnoses and help them develop more effective treatments quickly. In agriculture, AI can help us feed a growing population using fewer resources. In education, AI can be used to personalize education so that every student can make progress at their own pace based on their skills. In addition, you might have heard of the new, self-transporting cars, which is an example of how AI influences transportation.
We can conclude that as AI continues developing and improving, its impact on society will keep growing, making our lives better and more comfortable.
