Artificial Intelligence

Melanie Mitchell’s Artificial Intelligence: A Guide for Thinking Humans is like a reality check wrapped in a friendly explainer—perfect for anyone who’s ever wondered if AI is about to steal their job or just their lunch. With the warmth of a favorite professor and the clarity of someone who’s been around the AI block, Mitchell walks us through the field’s history, from its starry-eyed beginnings to its current, sometimes overhyped, state. She’s not here to scare you with tales of robot overlords; instead, she calmly dismantles the myths, showing how today’s AI, while impressive, still lacks the common sense and adaptability of a toddler on a sugar high. Her discussions on machine learning, neural networks, and the elusive quest for general intelligence are peppered with relatable examples and a touch of humor, making complex topics digestible. Whether you’re tech-savvy or just tech-curious, this book offers a thoughtful, accessible look at where AI stands—and where it might (or might not) go.

Some good examples and things that resonate but at the speed of AI growth - there are notable non-mentions showing quickly how dated some advanced/prescient books can get (even if they get across most of the key items).