Man has within a single generation found himself sharing the world with a strange new the computers and computer-like machines. Neither history, nor philosophy, nor common sense will tell us how these machines will affect us, for they do not do "work" as did machines of the Industrial Revolution. Instead of dealing with materials or energy, we are told that they handle "control" and "information" and even "intellectual processes." There are very few individuals today who doubt that the computer and its relatives are developing rapidly in capability and complexity, and that these machines are destined to play important (though not as yet fully understood) roles in society's future. Though only some of us deal directly with computers, all of us are falling under the shadow of their ever-growing sphere of influence, and thus we all need to understand their capabilities and their limitations. It would indeed be reassuring to have a book that categorically and systematically described what all these machines can do and what they cannot do, giving sound theoretical or practical grounds for each judgment. However, although some books have purported to do this, it cannot be done for the following a) Computer-like devices are utterly unlike anything which science has ever considered---we still lack the tools necessary to fully analyze, synthesize, or even think about them; and b) The methods discovered so far are effective in certain areas, but are developing much too rapidly to allow a useful interpretation and interpolation of results. The abstract theory---as described in this book---tells us in no uncertain terms that the machines' potential range is enormous, and that its theoretical limitations are of the subtlest and most elusive sort. There is no reason to suppose machines have any limitations not shared by man.

"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.

Store Description

We specialise in providing used books and a variety of other media items. Quality Promise: Quality is our promise. We carefully examine every book in our collection to make sure it lives up to our high expectations. Whether the item is gently worn or like new, we promise to deliver it to you in the condition that it is listed in. Fast Shipping: Get excited to receive your books quickly! We understand the eagerness to start your next reading adventure, which is why we offer fast and reliable shipping on all orders.

Visit Seller's Storefront

Seller's business information

Weston's Book Haven Ltd
4 Hatfield Road, Weston-super-Mare, BS23 2UT, United Kingdom

Sale & Shipping Terms

Terms of Sale

Shipping Terms

Shipping rates from United Kingdom to U.S.A.

Shipping rates from United Kingdom to U.S.A.
Order quantity	10 to 20 business days	10 to 15 business days
First item	US$ 42.55	US$ 105.14

Delivery times are set by sellers and vary by carrier and location. Orders passing through Customs may face delays and buyers are responsible for any associated duties or fees. Sellers may contact you regarding additional charges to cover any increased costs to ship your items.