Definition of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Definition of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

There is no precise, commonly accepted definition of AI, but…

AI is the field of computer science that focuses on creating systems capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence. These tasks include problem-solving, learning, reasoning, perception, natural language understanding, and decision-making.

Types of AI

AI can be classified based on capability and functionality:

1. Based on Capabilities

• Narrow AI (Weak AI):

  • Specializes in a specific task (e.g., voice assistants, recommendation systems).
  • Examples: Siri, Google Translate, AlphaGo.

• General AI (Strong AI):

  • Can perform any intellectual task that a human can.
  • Not yet achieved but remains the goal of AI research.

• Super AI:

  • Hypothetical AI surpassing human intelligence.
  • Could potentially exhibit self-awareness and independent decision-making.

2. Based on Functionality

• Reactive AI:

  • Responds to stimuli but lacks memory.
  • Example: IBM’s Deep Blue (chess-playing AI).

• Limited Memory AI:

  • Learns from past data and makes decisions.
  • Example: Self-driving cars.

• Theory of Mind AI (Not yet developed):

  • Would understand emotions, beliefs, and intentions.

• Self-Aware AI (Hypothetical):

  • Would have consciousness and self-awareness.

Key AI Techniques

• Machine Learning (ML): AI learns from data.
• Deep Learning (DL): Uses artificial neural networks for complex tasks.
• Natural Language Processing (NLP): AI understands and generates human language.
• Computer Vision: AI interprets and processes images or videos.
• Robotics: AI powers autonomous physical machines.

Definitions of Artificial Intelligence

• IBM: Defines AI as “technology that enables computers and machines to simulate human learning, comprehension, problem-solving, decision-making, creativity, and autonomy.” ​ibm.com

• NASA: Describes AI as “computer systems that can perform complex tasks normally done by human reasoning, decision-making, creating, etc.” ​nasa.gov

• McKinsey & Company: States that AI is “a machine’s ability to perform the cognitive functions we associate with human minds, such as perceiving, reasoning, learning, interacting with the environment, problem-solving, and even exercising creativity.” ​mckinsey.com