From Cybernetics to Awareness of Robots: Evolution of an Invisible Science

Embark on a journey that started with the visionary minds of Norbert Wiener and his fellow scientists as they conceived a groundbreaking idea in the 1940s—a new science for 'control and communication in animals and machines'. Little did Wiener and his contemporaries know that their brainchild, Cybernetics, would become the catalyst for a wave of innovation beyond their wildest dreams by the 2020s. Its far-reaching impact on feedback control, communication, and artificial intelligence has reshaped the fabric of our lives. This captivating book delves deep into the publicly uncharted territory of 'control science', revealing its pivotal role as the unsung hero behind the technological wonders of our age. From the cars we drive to the gadgets we can't live without, from power networks to personal computers, from aircraft to smartphones, robots to social media—the driving force behind them all is control science. Discover the compelling narrative that unravels the mathematical foundations underpinning these life-altering technologies. The precise results of mathematics have given birth to what we now recognise as 'control science,' solidifying our place in the 'age of control' in the 21st century. Prepare to embark on an eye-opening journey that will forever change the way you perceive the world around you. Welcome to the dawn of a new era, where control is the true economic driver, and its influence knows no bounds. Colour print edition.