Richard Barbrook
NEW YORK PROPHECIES: the imaginary future of artificial intelligence
Abstract
At the beginning of the 21st century, artificial intelligence remains the dominant ideological manifestation of the promise of computing. The credibility of this imaginary future depends upon forgetting its embarrassing history. Looking back at how earlier versions of the prophecy were repeatedly discredited encourages deep scepticism about its contemporary iterations. Our own personal frustrations with computer technology should demonstrate the improbability of its transformation into the Silicon Messiah. Forty years after the New York World's Fair, artificial intelligence has become an imaginary future from the distant past. What is needed instead is a much more sophisticated analysis of the potential of computing. The study of history should inform the reinvention of the future. Messianic mysticism must be replaced by pragmatic materialism.
Dr Richard Barbrook: School of Media, Arts & Design/ University of Westminster,Watford Road/ Northwick Park, HARROW HA1 3TP