Helpfully,  Agnew goes on to name other terms used in computer language, including 'algorithms', 'dataset' and 'machine learning. He quotes great detailed examples of these, which makes absorbing and helpful reading 

I was pleased to read Dr Matt continues with a close look at ethics. Human ethics must play a part in the evolution of AI. He gives highly detailed examples of two types of ethics from two eighteenth century philosophers, which certainly gives readers something to ponder.

The topic of evolution is discussed looking at the differences between human evolution which can take anywhere between a few hundred years to a few thousand, and the evolution of machine learning and AI, which has doubled over one generation. 

Dr Matt suggests that this means it might be possible in the near future to find AI and robots may become more intelligent than their makers.This, of course, poses the question, what happens when the slave becomes more intelligent than the master.

But Dr Matt tells us not to worry about this as the governments world-wide have also come to this conclusion and are working with the IT industry to put guidelines and laws into place.

To summarise,  this a fascinating and riveting book.The illustrations with thought bubbles and red rectangles which are placed throughout the book to explain idea and terms are particularly helpful. I read it in one afternoon - I just couldn't put it down and highly recommend this book should be read by adults as well as the '8 to 12 year olds' recommendation.

Dr Matt has a Phd in Astrophysics and a Masters in Artificial Intelligence.

Dr Matt Agnew is more than a scientist and a self-confessed nerd - he's a communications powerhouse making STEM fun and accessible for everyone.

The author

Dr Matt Agnew is more than a scientist and a self-confessed nerd - he's a communications powerhouse making STEM fun and accessible for everyone.

With myriad appearances across media channels, and a social media profile with a wide and varied audience, Dr Matt is a passionate and engaging scientist who has worn many hats - as an engineer, an astrophysicist, and an artificial intelligence expert - and has become a popular commentator on the latest happenings in the world of science. 

Dr Matt has a Doctorate in Astrophysics and a Masters in Artificial Intelligence, and is one of Australia's leading 'edutainers'. He was born in Adelaide, raised in Perth and now lives in Melbourne with his dog Pluto.