Why AI?: All your questions about artificial intelligence answered by a computer scientist

AI is a question-and-answer based exploration of the topic for ages 8 and up, from Dr Dharini Balasubramaniam, a computer scientist at University of St Andrews. It introduces us to the history of the concept of machine learning, the pioneers in the field, and the amazing AI doing good work in the world today. It includes case studies on fascinating topics, such as search-engine AI and exciting robotics, and answers questions such as: When did AI start? Why do we need AI? What can AI DO? What should AI do? What is the future of AI?

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 48 pages
Publication date: 09 January 2025
Publisher: Hachette Children's Group

AI is a hot topic that is on everyone's mind, but many of us don't know what it is or what to think about it. Why AI? is a question-and-answer based exploration of the topic for ages 8 and up, from Dr. Dharini Balasubramaniam, a computer scientist at the University of St. Andrews and a passionate advocate for ethics and education in her field. Dr. Balasubramaniam's clear and balanced explanations put our mind at ease, while challenging readers to consider how far AI can and should go in certain areas. She introduces us to the history of the concept of machine learning, the pioneers in the field of AI, and the amazing AI doing good work in the world today. The book includes case studies on fascinating topics, such as search-engine AI and exciting robotics, and answers questions, such as: When did AI start? Why do we need AI? What can AI DO? What should AI do? What is the future of AI?

AI is a complex topic that has been around for many years. It is a branch of computer science that focuses on creating intelligent machines that can perform tasks that would normally require human intelligence. AI has been used in a wide range of applications, from self-driving cars to medical diagnosis.

One of the key challenges of AI is to make sure that it is ethical and safe. This is because AI can be used to make decisions that have a significant impact on people's lives. For example, AI can be used to automate jobs, which could lead to job loss for many people. AI can also be used to make decisions that could harm people, such as in the case of autonomous weapons.

To address these challenges, there has been a lot of research and development in the field of AI. This has led to the development of new technologies and algorithms that can help to make AI more ethical and safe. For example, machine learning algorithms can be used to train AI systems to make more accurate decisions.

Another important aspect of AI is its ability to improve our lives. AI can be used to automate tasks that are time-consuming and repetitive, which can free up our time to do other things. AI can also be used to provide personalized recommendations to people based on their preferences and behavior.

However, there are also some concerns about the impact of AI on society. Some people believe that AI could lead to the loss of jobs and the concentration of power in the hands of a few companies. Others believe that AI could lead to the development of autonomous weapons that could be used to harm people.

To address these concerns, there has been a lot of regulation and legislation in the field of AI. For example, the European Union has passed a law that requires AI systems to be transparent and accountable. The United States has also passed a law that requires AI systems to be designed to avoid bias.

In conclusion, AI is a complex topic that has been around for many years. It has the potential to improve our lives, but it also has the potential to harm people. To address these challenges, there has been a lot of research and development in the field of AI, and there has been a lot of regulation and legislation in the field of AI. By working together, we can ensure that AI is used in a way that is ethical and safe for everyone.

Weight: 230g
Dimension: 215 x 284 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526327888