Can computers really think Artificial Intelligence is one of the big scientific ideas of our time. This book looks at what human intelligence is - how a hundred thousand million interconnected neurons are responsible for learning and memory - and asks if computers can ever be truly intelligent. A computer can mimic our intelligence, for example by playing chess, but it is dependent on following a complicated program. However, computers are now being developed which are not programmed at all, but use neural networks to simulate the way the brain learns and remembers. These computers can interpret speech and handwriting, and even recognise faces.Jack Challoner speculates on the future uses of intelligent computers, from robots, computer-operated false limbs and intelligent televisions to computer teachers, scientists and philosophers, and considers moral questions, such as: if we invent an intelligent computer, will it be wrong to unplug it Illustrated by Andrew McLynn.

 

 

This book features in the following series: What's the Big Idea?, Whats the Big Idea? .

There are 128 pages in this book.

It is aimed at Young Adult readers. The term Young Adult (YA) is used for books which have the following characteristics: (1) aimed at ages 12-18 years, US grades 7-12, UK school years 8-15, (2) around 50-75k words long, (3) main character is aged 12-18 years, (4) topics include self-reflection, internal conflict vs external, analyzing life and its meaning, (5) point of view is often in the first person, and (6) swearing, violence, romance and sexuality are allowed.

This book was published in 1999 by Hachette Children's Group .

Jack Challoner has written and lectured on a wide range of science topics. Dr Rodney Walshaw has worked for the British Geological Survey and edited several renowned geoscience publications.