Definition
To begin with, Chat GPT has the following explanation for Artificial Intelligence (AI):
What it seems like:
A robot brain or sentient machine.
What it is:
A broad term for any system or program that mimics human-like tasks, such as learning, reasoning, or problem-solving. Example: Voice assistants like Alexa or Siri.
Artificial Intelligence is a branch of computer science that teaches computers to respond in a way similar to humans.
Explanation
While there’s been a definite rise in recent years sensationalizing, celebrating or demonizing all things AI and AI related, AI’s formal beginnings as a field of research is evident from as far back as the 1950’s and foundationally, theoretically and mythically can be traced back aeons. The original myths, ideas, book and movie characters and their experiments and perspectives on robots, computers and machines mimicking humans, were once mere colourful imaginings. And yet, in the world today AI systems are almost daily companions – echoing Picasso’s comment that “Everything you can imagine is real”. Indeed, these days AI’s implications are being felt more tangibly by everyday people in all spheres of life, as the use of AI applications become more common.
Real Life
In real terms, AI’s relevance could be encountered by engaging with a customer service chat bot when doing online shopping, as an initial way of quickly getting answers to generic queries.
Finances
And AI technology is evident when making payments online from card verifications, fraud detection and payment acceptance. AI systems can determine if an applicant qualifies for a preliminary banking loan where information from an application is compared against preset criteria such as minimum income and monthly expenditure to immediately determine basic eligibility.
Academia and Art
Additionally, AI can be used in studies and research with Large Language Models (LLM’s) like Chat GPT. Further to this, AI systems can aid, refine or catalyze ideas through design programs like MidJourney using sophisticated prompts to generate masses of creative imagery. And then there’s the AI elements in programs like Canva which are launchpads for endless creative pursuits.
The Workplace
AI programming is evident in job application systems where initial system screenings accept or eliminate candidates on the basis of predetermined input fields such as years of experience, qualifications and skills matching.
Home & Business
In the home, items like robot vacuums and smart appliances and security systems have become mainstays, while automations, virtual assistants, cybersecurity and system integrations are some of the AI features that dominate the business arena.
Final Thought
In professional and casual settings alike, in business, studies and personal endeavors, the impact of Artificial intelligence is, to borrow and tweak from Picasso, as real as can be imagined.
