Is AI A Branch of Computer Science or An Alternative To Computer Science
Is AI A Branch of Computer Science or An Alternative To Computer Science
PYTHON
Python (official website) is among developers favorites programming languages in AI
development because of its syntax simplicity and versatility. Python is very encouraging for
machine learning for developers as it is less complex as compared to C++ and Java. It also a
very portable language as it is used on platforms including Linux, Windows, Mac OS, and
UNIX. It is also likable from its features such as Interactive, interpreted, modular, dynamic,
portable and high level which make it more unique than Java.
Also, Python is a Multi-paradigm programming supporting object-oriented, procedural and
functional styles of programming. Python supports neural networks and development of NLP
solutions thanks to its simple function library and more so ideal structure.
Advantages
Python has a rich and extensive variety of library and tools.
Supports algorithm testing without having to implement them.
Python supporting object-oriented design increases a programmer’s productivity.
Compared to Java and C++, Python is faster in development.
Drawbacks
Developers accustomed to using Python face difficulty in adjusting to completely
different syntax when they try using other languages for AI programming.
Unlike C++ and Java, python works with the help of an interpreter which makes
compilation and execution slower in AI development.
Not suitable for mobile computing. For AI meant for mobile applications, Python
unsuitable due to its weak language for mobile computing.
C++
C++ is the fastest computer language, its speed is appreciated for AI programming projects that
are time sensitive. It provides faster execution and has less response time which is applied in
search engines and development of computer games. In addition, C++ allows extensive use of
algorithms and is efficient in using statistical AI techniques. Another important factor is that C+
+ supports re-use of programs in development due to inheritance and data-hiding thus efficient
in time and cost saving.
C++ is appropriate for machine learning and neural network.
Advantages
Good for finding solutions for complex AI problems.
Rich in library functions and programming tools collection.
C++ is a multi-paradigm programming that supports object-oriented principles thus
useful in achieving organized data.
Drawbacks
Poor in multitasking; C++ is suitable only for implementing core or the base of specific
systems or algorithms.
It follows the bottom-up approach thus, highly complex making it hard for newbies
developers at using it for writing AI programs.
JAVA
Java (official website) is another programming language to answer ‘which computer language
is used for artificial intelligence?’ Java is also a multi-paradigm language that follows object-
oriented principles and the principle of Once Written Read/Run Anywhere (WORA). It is an AI
programming language that can run on any platform that supports it without the need for
recompilation.
Java is one of the most commonly used and not just in AI development. It derives a major part
of its syntax from C and C++ in addition to its lesser tools that them. Java is not only
appropriate for NLP and search algorithms but also for neural networks.
Advantages
Very portable; it is easy to implement on different platforms because of Virtual Machine
Technology.
Unlike C++, Java is simple to use and even debug.
Has an automatic memory manager which eases the work of the developer.
Disadvantages
Java is, however, slower than C++, it has less speed in execution and more response
time.
Though highly portable, on older platforms, java would require dramatic changes on
software and hardware to facilitate.
Java is also a generally immature programming AI language as there are still some
developments ongoing such as JDK 1.1 in beta.
LISP
LISP is another language used for artificial intelligence development. It is a family of computer
programming language and is the second oldest programming language after Fortran. LISP has
developed over time to become strong and dynamic language in coding.
Some consider LISP as the best AI programming language due to the favour of liberty it offers
developers. LISP is used in AI because of its flexibility for fast in prototyping and
experimentation which in turn facilitate LISP to grow to a standard AI language. For instance,
LISP has a unique macro system which facilitates exploration and implementation of different
levels of Intellectual Intelligence.
LISP, unlike most AI programming languages, is more efficient in solving specific as it adapts
to the needs of the solutions a developer is writing. It is highly suitable in inductive logic
projects and machine learning.
Advantages
Fast and efficient in coding as it is supported by compilers instead of interpreters.
Automatic memory manager was invented for LISP, therefore, it has a garbage
collection.
LISP offers specific control over systems resulting to their maximum use.
Drawbacks
Few developers are well acquainted with Lisp programming.
Being a vintage programming language artificial intelligence, LISP requires
configuration of new software and hardware to accommodate it use.
PROLOG
Prolog is also one of the oldest programming languages thus also suitable for the development
of programming AI. Like Lisp, it is also a primary computer language for artificial intelligence.
It has mechanisms that facilitate flexible frameworks developers enjoy working with. It is a
rule-based and declarative language as it contains facts and rules that dictate its artificial
intelligence coding language.
Prolog supports basic mechanisms such as pattern matching, tree-based data structuring, and
automatic backtracking essential for AI programming. Other than its extensive use in AI
projects, Prolog is also used for creation of medical systems.
Advantages
Prolog has a built-in list handling essential in representing tree-based data structures.
Efficient for fast prototyping for AI programs to be released modules frequently.
Allows database creation simultaneous with running of the program.
Drawbacks
Despite prolog old age, it has not been fully standardized in that some features differ in
implementation making the work of the developer cumbersome.
5. What do you think led mankind to embark upon the study of AI? Which
fields of study particularly fed into it?