Introduction to Artificial Intelligence

by Philip C. Jackson Jr.

Can computers think? Can they use reason to develop their own concepts, solve complex problems, play games, understand our languages? This comprehensive survey of artificial intelligence ― the study of how computers can be made to act intelligently ― explores these and other fascinating questions. Introduction to Artificial Intelligence presents an introduction to the science of reasoning processes in computers, and the research approaches and results of the past two decades. You'll find lucid, easy-to-read coverage of problem-solving methods, representation and models, game playing, automated understanding of natural languages, heuristic search theory, robot systems, heuristic scene analysis and specific artificial-intelligence accomplishments. Related subjects are also predicate-calculus theorem proving, machine architecture, psychological simulation, automatic programming, novel software techniques, industrial automation and much more.
A supplementary section updates the original book with major research from the decade 1974-1984. Abundant illustrations, diagrams and photographs enhance the text, and challenging practice exercises at the end of each chapter test the student's grasp of each subject.The combination of introductory and advanced material makes Introduction to Artificial Intelligence ideal for both the layman and the student of mathematics and computer science. For anyone interested in the nature of thought, it will inspire visions of what computer technology might produce tomorrow.

Genres: Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Science, Technology, Nonfiction, Reference, Philosophy

454 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1974

About the author

Philip C. Jackson, Jr. has a Ph.D. for a thesis on artificial intelligence, and has extensive experience in software design and development. He is the founder of TalaMind LLC, conducting research toward human-level artificial intelligence.

Reviews

[Nellalou · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good little book that introduces many of the major ideas in the field of artificial intelligence. It's pretty old now so has more value as a historical document than anything. Not overly technical, though some background in computer science, cognitive science and/or mathematics is helpful but not absolutely essential. One would have to do some work without such background though. It discusses diverse concepts such as game trees and search techniques, semantic information processing, problem solving, self-organizing systems, etc. I especially liked the explanatory form the author employed which gave good context to some of the more difficult bits. This was one of the first books I read on the subject which was my good luck because it didn't turn me off of a sometimes difficult subject area which continues to fascinate me.

[Bhaskar Jyoti · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book “Introduction to Artificial Intelligence: Third Edition” by Philip C. Jackson, Jr. is a comprehensive survey that includes new content on “Artificial Intelligence in the 21st Century.” This edition introduces topics such as deep neural networks, conceptual graphs, languages of thought, mental models, metacognition, economic prospects, and research toward human-level AI. It’s designed for both lay readers and students of computer science, featuring abundant illustrations, diagrams, and photographs, as well as challenging exercises at the end of each chapter.

The book covers various aspects of AI, including problem-solving methods and representations, game playing, automated understanding of natural languages, heuristic search theory, robot systems, heuristic scene analysis, predicate-calculus theorem proving, automatic programming, and many other subjects. It aims to address questions like whether computers can think, use reason to develop their own concepts, solve complex problems, and understand our languages.

For those interested in delving into the field of AI, this book serves as an ideal starting point, providing a clear and lucid discussion of fundamental AI concepts and the latest advancements in the field.

[Antonis Maronikolakis · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want to start by saying this is an old book and most of the information is outdated. Only read this to get a feel of the earlier research and thought process on the topic of Artificial Intelligence.

If you pick up this book to have an interesting read and a historic glimpse on past research, you will enjoy this greatly. It is a nicely written book, with examples, illustrations and easy wording to get the concepts across.

The first half in particular gives a very insightful and interesting overview of research on the field. The other half stalls a bit, getting more technical and delving deeper into concepts that are unfortunately outdated.

If you can get past that, you are in for a relaxed and interesting read. I would definitely recommend it to anyone interested in AI wanting to take a peek at previous work.

[Justin LeCheminant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Old but still good

So I come to this with a bachelor's degree in computer science and no real knowledge of AI. I now know the basics and still future issues. The math can be tricky and parts are woefully out of date. However this book still has a lot to offer and I would suggest anyone who wants to start their AI journey start here.

[Ark · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one helped me with my Artificial Intelligence course and, though it primarily covers the mathematical, conceptual, and neuroscientific fundamentals of AI, it is more than enough to help you learn the quintessential bases of AI.

[Brandon Fosdick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dated yet good

This edition is a bit dated yet surprisingly still relevant to the current state of the art. Worth the read.

[Anthony O'Connor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Way out of date but still worth reading. Goes through the basics well, grasping for a more general perspective. Aren't we all.

[Annie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Despite the book being dated (not sure on the exact copyright, but it's definitely old!) it's a interesting survey of AI. The grammatical errors bothered me, such as using insure when the author meant ensure, affect for effect, and the like. Some good information, but a lot of it is out of date, however, I don't feel like it was a complete waste of my time.

[Jimmy M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book, especially if you are 50 and younger, since you will get to see many of these things in person. Philip Jackson does a good job laying out the landscape of the future, as well as AI's benefits and risks.

[Daniel Teichman · Rating 3 out of 5]

Outdated, but well-informed.