Age Of Intelligent Machines

Inventor Raymond Kurzweil is the host of this informative look at how recent advances in the field of AI (artificial intelligence) holds the promise of exciting changes in our future lives. Stevie Wonder demonstrates how a voice-synthesized scanning machine can 'read a book' out loud. A paraplegic is seen directing a robot by voice to lift a cup of liquid to his mouth--so that he may have a drink of water without being dependent on another human being. Other examples of machine intelligence are shown in the areas of newspaper layout, diagnostic medicine, computer art, and even an intelligent chef. The obstacles that AI must surmount in the future are examined by the always engaging Marvin Minsky (author of "The Society of Mind"), who points out that machines can handle complexities--such as master level chess--relatively easy, but falter at the simplest human operations--such as walking up stairs. Already a recipient of four awards (including a CINE Golden Eagle and a Gold Medal at the New York Film Festival), this is an excellent program for both public libraries and schools. (Available from: AIMS Media, 6901 Woodley Ave., Van Nuys, CA 91406-4878; 1-800-367-2467).