JOURNAL ARTICLE

The Descent of Artificial Intelligence: A Deep History of an Idea 400 Years in the Making by Kevin Padraic Donnelly (review).

  • Published In: Technology & Culture, 2025, v. 66, n. 2. P. 588 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Bates, David 3 of 3

Abstract

"The Descent of Artificial Intelligence: A Deep History of an Idea 400 Years in the Making" by Kevin Padraic Donnelly, published in 2024, explores the historical origins of artificial intelligence (AI) by tracing the development of predictable knowledge of human action through natural sciences over nearly 400 years. The book delves into the emergence of social science in Europe and America, focusing on the Enlightenment worldview, Condorcet's revolutionary approach to sociology, and the influence of literary texts on defining humanity through social laws. While the text offers valuable insights, some critics find fault in the lack of emphasis on psychology and philosophy in connecting sociological thought to AI. Despite this, the book provides a thorough examination of the historical context surrounding AI's development. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Technology & Culture. 2025/04, Vol. 66, Issue 2, p588
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:History
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:0040-165X
  • DOI:10.1353/tech.2025.a956882
  • Accession Number:184654548
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