The discrete charm of the machine: why the world became digital

摘要

Digital computers have found their way into every aspect of modern life. They are now essential for work and ubiquitous in leisure, and used from childhood to retirement age, through every stage of adult life. Although the number of digital computers in operation today is already mind boggling, it continues to grow at a fast pace. We seem to be at a loss as to where this ever-more digital life will lead. Some dream of a future where robots and artificial intelligence (AT) will do the heavy lifting, freeing humans for a life of creative work, while others fear intelligent machines spell doom for humanity. Whatever the outcome, one thing is certain: computing by digital machines is bound to leave its mark.