FUTURE FORWARD

A comprehensive and concise look at the development, influence, and future of artificial intelligence.

In an overview chapter, “The Age of Machines,” former educator McPherson sets the stage with a brief overview of AI, before moving on to “The Beginnings of Artificial Intelligence,” which focuses on military efforts during World War II. Chapter 3 introduces Timothy Berners-Lee and deep learning, and Chapter 4 opens with an engaging anecdote about Nobel Laureate Demis Hassabis, who first became interested in AI as a child who excelled at chess. Later chapters cover generative AI, algorithmic bias, accuracy and security, and AI’s potential positive and problematic effects on the job market. A later chapter points out AI’s potential environmental benefits, including through planning airline routes, managing fires, and predicting weather, and summarizes the “serious environmental downside” as complex, noting that “Environmentalists, researchers, and many elected officials are united in their quest to develop AI systems that promote sustainable practices, minimize pollution, and halt climate change.” The author presents both the benefits and drawbacks of AI, although the problematic aspects are often framed as “concerns,” which may feel less serious than is warranted. The conclusions to the chapters use open-ended language that supports a positive mindset. The clear explanations, photos, color palette, and layout (which includes frequent subheadings) are well-suited to the intended audience, and informative text boxes add additional context.

An information-rich, teen-friendly, and overall hopeful look at AI.