artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a rapidly growing field in computing. Many scientists speak of it as the future. It is very interesting what computers can do in this modern age. Let’s dig in and find out more.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

By the end of this topic, you are expected to:

• Understand the meaning of computer intelligence
• Understand the application of artificial intelligence
• Understand the benefits and challenges of artificial intelligence

In computer science, artificial intelligence (AI), also known as machine intelligence, refers to intelligence that is demonstrated by machines, in contrast to the natural intelligence shown by humans. Any device that perceives its environment and takes actions that increase its chance of successfully achieving its goals is referred to as an intelligent agent. Artificial intelligence is mainly used to define machines that mimic cognitive functions that are associated with the human mind like problem solving and learning.

As the capability of machines increase, tasks that are considered to require intelligence are removed from the definition of AI. This phenomenon is known as AI effect. For example, optical character recognition is often excluded from things that are considered to be AI, after having become a routine technology. Modern capabilities of machines that are generally classified as AI include military simulations, intelligent routing in content delivery networks, autonomously operating cars, competing in strategic game systems like chess and understanding human speech.

The traditional problems of (or goals) of AI research include knowledge representation, reasoning, learning, planning, natural language processing, the ability to move and manipulate objects and perception. General intelligence is one of the long term goals of the field of artificial intelligence. Approaches include computational intelligence, traditional symbolic AI and statistical methods. Artificial intelligence makes use of many tools such as artificial neural networks, search and mathematical optimization, and methods based on economics, probability, and statistics. Artificial intelligence borrows from many fields such as computer science, mathematics, information engineering, psychology, and many other fields.

The field of artificial intelligence was founded on the assumption that human intelligence can be described very precisely to the extent that a machine can be made to simulate it. Some people consider AI to be a danger to humanity in that it will create a risk of mass unemployment.

AI mainly revolves around the use of algorithms. An algorithm refers to a set of unambiguous instructions that a mechanical computer can execute. A complex algorithm is built on top of other, simpler ones.

ADVANTAGES OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

• Dealing with mundane tasks. AI has the potential to complete mundane tasks through intricate automation that increases productivity. Theoretically, this will remove boring tasks to enable humans to be more creative.
• Faster decisions. With AI, decisions can be made faster and actions carried out quicker.
• Avoiding errors. Humans naturally make a lot of mistakes. Computers, however, do not make these mistakes. With AI, data can be processed error-free.
• Reduces the risks. AI can help the risk that humans are exposed to in the name of research. For example, in space exploration to Mars.

DISADVANTAGES OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

• Job losses. AI will replace many low skilled jobs.
• Distribution of power. AI may take control of humans.
• Lack of judgemental calls. Humans can take specific circumstances and take judgemental calls when making decisions. AI may never be able to do that.