Advancements in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) are undeniable. Arthur C. Clark said, “Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.”, and while contemporary AI might not yet qualify as sufficiently advanced, it does seem to be converging in that direction. What should a non-expert know about the field to apply appropriate scientific skepticism? Let’s cut through the hype and discuss how we evaluate the inevitable claims that machines can think.
Kyle Polich hosts the popular Data Skeptic podcast, a show that makes statistics, machine learning, and AI accessible to anyone with an interest in data science. When not podcasting, Kyle runs Data Skeptic LLC, a data science consulting firm that helps companies turn data into a competitive advantage through machine learning and other technologies. He earned Bachelor & Master of Science degrees from the University of Illinois at Chicago, majoring in computer science with a focus on artificial intelligence.