All your questions and worries about Al today - the who, what, where, when and WHY - answered by a computer scientist.

It's here and it's not going away - AI is on everyone's mind, but many of us don't know what it is never mind what to think about it! Why AI? is a question-and-answer based exploration of the topic for ages 8 and up, from Dr Dharini Balasubramaniam, a computer scientist at University of St Andrews and a passionate advocate for ethics and education in her field.

Dr Balasubramaniam's clear and balanced explanations put our mind at ease, while challenging readers to consider how far AI can and should go in certain areas. She introduces us to the history of the concept of machine learning, the pioneers in the field of AI and the amazing AI doing good work in the world today. The book includes case studies on fascinating topics, such as search-engine AI and exciting robotics, and answers questions, such as:

When did AI start?; Why do we need AI?; What can AI DO?; What should AI do?; What is the future of AI?

Dr. Dharini Balasubramaniam is a Senior Lecturer in Computer Science at the University of St Andrews in the UK. She briefly worked in software industry before turning to academia. She has taught Computer Science from first year to Masters level for a number of years. Her research interests are diverse, and include software systems, ethics in Computer Science, digital literacy and Computer Science education. She is particularly passionate about promoting Computer Science to school pupils as an exciting and accessible subject with wide-ranging career options. She enjoys reading, wildlife photography and long walks.