Skip to main content
Schriftzug "Künstliche Intelligenz"

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a term that has increasingly come to the fore in recent years. But what exactly does it mean? In this article, we will look at the definition, history and applications of artificial intelligence.

What is artificial intelligence?

Artificial intelligence refers to systems that are capable of performing tasks that would normally require human intelligence. These systems use algorithms, data and statistical methods to simulate human-like abilities such as learning, reasoning and problem solving.

How does artificial intelligence work?

At the core of artificial intelligence are algorithms that process data and learn from it. Neural networks are a good example of artificial intelligence. These are inspired by the way the human brain works and can recognize and react to complex patterns in data.

Artificial intelligence (AI) works by combining large amounts of data with fast, iterative modeling methods that enable machines to automatically learn from patterns and features in the data.

At the heart of many AI systems are neural networks, which are inspired by the structure of the human brain. A neural network consists of thousands or millions of simple processing nodes that are densely interconnected and organized in layers. These nodes, often referred to as "neurons", are filled with algorithms that produce a specific output based on the data inputs.

If the output is not correct, the algorithms are adjusted and retested until they achieve the desired result. This process of training and adapting is known as'machine learning' and is key to developing autonomous AI systems that can perform complex tasks without human intervention.

Applications of artificial intelligence

The applications of AI are diverse and range from simple daily tasks to complex scientific research. Examples include

  • Speech recognition: systems that can recognize and interpret human speech in real time.
  • Image recognition: Machines that can analyze images and identify specific objects or people in them.
  • Recommendation systems: Like the suggestions you see on online platforms, based on your previous behavior.
  • Machines: From self-driving cars to robots used in manufacturing.
  • Healthcare: For example, in the diagnosis of diseases or the development of new drugs.
  • Finance: In predicting share prices or detecting fraud attempts.
  • Research: In the analysis of scientific data or the prediction of weather events.

Practical examples

It is undeniable that artificial intelligence has the potential to revolutionize many areas of our lives.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has made considerable progress in recent years and is being used in a wide range of industries. Some practical examples of the use of AI include

  • smart virtual assistants that can answer user queries in real time,
  • self-driving cars that use AI algorithms and sensors to perceive their surroundings and make decisions,
  • Assistants in medicine: that can help diagnose diseases that are difficult for humans to recognize,
  • checkout-free grocery shopping, where customers can take items from the shelf and leave the store without having to pay at the checkout; payment is made automatically via their accounts.
Bereits seit vielen Jahren kennen wir KI. Ein einfaches Beispiel hierfür sind Schachspiel-Programme, bei denen der Spieler "gegen den Computer" spielt.

AI - history and future

The development of artificial intelligence began over half a centuryago. As early as the 1950s, the first attempts were made to build machines that could perform human-like tasks. However, it is only in recent years, with the advent of large amounts of data and more powerful computers, that AI research has really taken off.

The future of artificial intelligence looks promising. As research and technology advances, AI systems are becoming more powerful and can be used in more and more areas. The results achieved through the use of artificial intelligence can be impressive. However, there are also issues such as ethical concerns surrounding AI, particularly in relation to data protection and job loss. It is important that we as a society find a balanced approach to harnessing the benefits of AI while minimizing potential risks.

Further information

We believe that artificial intelligence is an exciting and diverse field that has the potential to change many aspects of our lives. It is important to engage with this target areain order to understand the opportunities and risks.

  1. europarl.europa.eu - What is artificial intelligence and how is it used?
  2. ibm.com - What is artificial intelligence (AI)?
  3. springer.com - Artificial intelligence: an overview

Book tips