Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the intelligence of machines. The term also refers to the developing field of computer sc
ience that is responsible for creating intelligent machines. Scientists and engineers are working on computer software intended to imitate the human thought process, such as learning and reasoning. A computer can already do some things better than people, such as store information, solve numerical problems, and complete repetitive tasks. Computers have been able to perform these kinds of tasks by using algorithms, which are clearly defined sets of instructions. In contrast, AI software only presents a problem to the computer, not the steps necessary to solve the problem. The computer itself determines how to solve the problem.
AI programs contain two essential components. First, the computer program must contain a knowledge base that includes different types of information, such as facts, concepts, and theories. The second component is enabling the computer to draw inferences, which means that the computer can form a conclusion based on facts and knowledge. In this scenario, a computer with AI intelligence is presented with a problem to be solved. The computer then searches its knowledge base for specific conditions or patterns that fit the problem to be solved. This ability of AI programs to solve a problem based on facts rather than on a fixed series of steps is what mimics the thought process of a human brain.
Whether or not a computer can really think is still up for debate, even though there are numerous examples of machines that can be said to resemble human intelligence. For example, IBM developed Deep Blue, a chess-playing computer that defeated Garry Kasparov in 1997. However, even these kinds of computer programs are limited because they can only do what they have been programmed to do. Most scientists and researchers agree that machines currently lack the subtlety and range of human thought. However, as AI technology develops, more questions and debate will surely arise. The most important issue going forward is how AI technology can best serve the humans who created it.
1
Select the correct answer.
Read the last sentence of the passage.
"The most important issue going forward is how AI technology can best serve the humans who created it."
How does this sentence engage the reader in the subject material?
A.
The author uses humor to encourage the reader to accept the information.
B.
The author invites the reader to consider the possibilities of this technology.
C.
The author draws a conclusion that the reader is expected to accept.
D.
The author tells the reader that this technology will improve his or her life.
