Discover the fascinating revolution from analog to digital in The Discrete Charm of the Machine. This thought-provoking trade paperback delves into the profound transformation of our communication and computational landscape. With a fresh perspective, author Ken Steiglitz unpacks the physical and logical reasons driving this digital evolution, from Jacquard's loom to today's advanced AI systems. Gain insights on how pioneers like Charles Babbage and Alan Turing laid the groundwork for digital technology, impacting everything from the internet to quantum computing. In this exploration, be prepared to confront the moral and aesthetic dilemmas posed by artificial intelligence and autonomous robots. This is not just a book; it's an intellectual journey through the history and future of technology, making it a perfect addition to your collection. With an ISBN of 9780691229027, this brand-new paperback, published in 2021 by Princeton University Press, is essential reading for anyone interested in technology's evolution. Enjoy free shipping on your order, with delivery times of up to 6 weeks. Please note that once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.

Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.
Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780691229027
Format: Trade paperback (US)
Year: 2021
Publisher: Princeton University Press


Description:


A few short decades ago, we were informed by the smooth signals of analog television and radio —we communicated using our analog telephones; and we even computed with analog computers. Today our world is digital, built with zeros and ones. Why did this revolution occur? The Discrete Charm of the Machine explains, in an engaging and accessible manner, the varied physical and logical reasons behind this radical transformation.

The spark of individual genius shines through this story of innovation: the stored program of Jacquard’s loom; Charles Babbage’s logical branching; Alan Turing’s brilliant abstraction of the discrete machine; Harry Nyquist’s foundation for digital signal processing; Claude Shannon’s breakthrough insights into the meaning of information and bandwidth; and Richard Feynman’s prescient proposals for nanotechnology and quantum computing.

Ken Steiglitz follows the progression of these ideas in the building of our digital world, from the internet and artificial intelligence to the edge of the unknown. Are questions like the famous traveling salesman problem truly beyond the reach of ordinary digital computers? Can quantum computers transcend these barriers?Does a mysterious magical power reside in the analog mechanisms of the brain? Steiglitz concludes by confronting the moral and aesthetic questions raised by the development of artificial intelligence and autonomous robots.

The Discrete Charm of the Machine examines why our information technology, the lifeblood of our civilisation, became digital, and challenges us to think about where its future trajectory may lead.