Artificial intelligence is not a novel concept. Instead, it has been around for a lot longer than you might think. In fact, people have been imagining what artificial intelligence could look like for centuries. From ancient myths to early science fiction novels, the idea of creating intelligent machines has always been a fascinating one.
Wiki / Early data shows that our ancestors have always been obsessed with the concept of artificial intelligence.
While we might not have fully realized the potential of AI just yet, it is interesting to take a look back at some of the early imaginings of this technology.
6. The Golem
One of the earliest stories of artificial intelligence comes from Jewish folklore. The story of the Golem tells of a rabbi who creates a humanoid creature from clay. And animates it with mystical powers.
Myth / In popular Jewish folklore, “The Golem,” we can find the earliest signs of AI.
While the Golem is not exactly what we would consider AI today, the idea of creating a sentient being from inanimate material is certainly a precursor to modern AI.
5. Frankenstein’s Monster
Mary Shelley’s classic novel, “Frankenstein,” is often considered the first true science fiction novel. The story of a mad scientist creating a living creature from dead flesh is another early imagining of AI.
While the monster is often portrayed as a mindless brute, it becomes self-aware and intelligent in some adaptations.
4. The Mechanical Turk
In the late 18th century, a mechanical automaton known as The Mechanical Turk was displayed throughout Europe and the United States. The machine was designed to play chess and was meant to be an early example of artificial intelligence.
Amusing Planet / Back in the 18th century, a robot chess player – AKA The Mechanical Turk – was displayed throughout the U.S. and Europe as the epitome of AI.
However, the machine was eventually revealed to be a hoax. But it is still an interesting example of early AI.
3. The Difference Engine
Charles Babbage’s Analytical Engine, designed in the early 19th century, is often considered one of the earliest mechanical computers. Although it was never built, it laid the groundwork for modern computing and AI.
Babbage’s later design, the Difference Engine, was meant to be an early computer that could perform mathematical calculations.
2. The Tin Man
“The Wizard of Oz” is a classic tale that has been adapted into multiple films, television shows, and stage productions. The character of the Tin Man is an early example of a sympathetic AI character in popular media.
Essentially, it is a sentient machine that longs for a heart
1. The Jetsons’ Rosie
Finally, the Jetsons was a popular animated television show in the 1960s that depicted a futuristic family living in a world full of robots and other advanced technology.
Thus, Rosie, the Jetsons’ robot maid, was an early example of a personal assistant AI that could perform household tasks.
Parting Thoughts
As we continue to develop and improve artificial intelligence, it is fascinating to look back at some of the early imaginings of this technology. From ancient mythology to classic literature and film, the concept of creating intelligent machines has been a fascination throughout human history.
While we might not have fully realized the potential of AI just yet. But these early examples show us that the desire for self-aware machines has been with us for a long time. Thus, it will be exciting to see where the future of AI takes us.
