This process of simulating human thought has led to the development of new ideas in information processing. Among these new concepts are fuzzy logic, whereby a computer is programmed to think in broader terms than either/ or and yes/no; expert systems, a group of programming rules that describe a reasoning process allowing computers to adapt and learn; data mining, detecting patterns in stimuli and drawing conclusions from them; genetic algorithm, a program that provides for random mutation for the machine to improve itself; and several others.
Recent applications of AI technology include machines that track financial investments, assist doctors in diagnoses and in looking for adverse interactions in patients on multiple medications, and spotting credit card fraud. An Australian scientist working in Japan is attempting to create a silicon brain using newly developed quantum resistors. Reported in a 1995 article in Business Week, Hugo de Garis is leading a team of scientists to create a computing system capable of reproducing itself. As Business Week reports, the project will attempt to “not only coax silicon circuits into giving birth to innate intelligence but imbue them with the power to design themselves—to control their own destiny by spawning new generations of ever improving brains at electronic speeds.” This type of technology is called evolvable hardware.
Taken from : The Gale Encyclopedia Of Psychology 2ND Edition - Bonnie Strickland
