Artificial intelligence explained (Paperback)

Paperback. Artificial intelligence is transforming the world-but few truly understand how it works, what it really does, and what it means for society. Beyond sensational headlines and futuristic promises, Artificial Intelligence Explained offers a clear, rigorous, and accessible exploration of AI as it actually exists today: powerful, limited, useful-and risky. Written for the general reader, this book demystifies artificial intelligence without technical jargon, while addressing its deepest implications for work, democracy, security, ethics, and human autonomy. What Is Artificial Intelligence-Really?What does AI do when it "learns"?How do algorithms make decisions?Why are AI systems powerful in some domains and unreliable in others? This book explains: the origins and history of artificial intelligence, how machine learning, probabilistic models, and optimization actually work, why AI systems do not understand the world, despite their apparent intelligence.Clear explanations replace vague claims, allowing readers to distinguish reality from myth. Real-World Applications Across SocietyArtificial intelligence is already embedded in daily life-often invisibly. This book examines AI in: finance and banking (risk, credit scoring, automation), medicine and healthcare (diagnosis, decision support, ethical limits), military, intelligence, and security, policing and surveillance, cybersecurity and cybercrime, law, justice, and public administration, industry, logistics, robotics, and transportation, art, creativity, education, and research.Each domain is analyzed with balance-highlighting both benefits and structural dangers. Risks, Bias, and Existential QuestionsThis book does not minimize risk. It explains why many AI problems are **structural**, not accidental: algorithmic bias and lack of representativeness, automation bias and overreliance on machines, job transformation and economic inequality, environmental impact of large-scale AI systems, malicious uses such as fraud, manipulation, and disinformation, political and social risks, including erosion of democratic accountability. Regulation, Governance, and Societal ChoicesAI is not inevitable destiny. It is shaped by law and policy. The book examines: AI regulation in Canada, the United States, Europe, and beyond, the tension between innovation and precaution, open-source versus proprietary AI, global coordination and geopolitical competition.It shows why the future of artificial intelligence depends less on technology than on collective choices. Why Read This Book?Written in clear prose, not technical jargonBalanced, critical, and grounded in real deploymentsSuitable for non-specialists, professionals, educators, and policymakersNo hype, no fear-mongering-just clarityExplains both strengths and limits of AI honestly Who This Book Is ForReaders seeking to understand artificial intelligence clearlyProfessionals affected by AI in their fieldEducators and studentsPolicymakers and informed citizensAnyone tired of exaggerated promises or dystopian cliches Artificial Intelligence Is a MirrorAI does not replace human responsibility-it amplifies it.This book shows how artificial intelligence reflects society's priorities, power structures, and values-and why understanding it is essential to shaping a future that remains human. If you want to understand artificial intelligence beyond slogans, this book is your essential guide. Shipping may be from our UK warehouse or from our Australian or US warehouses, depending on stock availability.…