Probably nothing in the last few years has intrigued people and society more than artificial intelligence.
In short, AI is the capability of computational systems to perform tasks typically associated with human intelligence, such as learning, reasoning, problem-solving, perception and decision-making. It is a field of research in engineering, mathematics, and computer science that develops and studies methods and software that enable machines to perceive their environment and use learning and intelligence to take actions that maximize their chances of achieving defined goals.
It’s also the subject of a new book written by John Petralia, a former Loveladies resident who now splits time between Philadelphia and Fort Myers, Fla. Called Interview with the Monster AI, it begins with a simple but audacious idea: Instead of asking experts what we should think about artificial intelligence, Petralia puts AI itself in the interview chair.
From economic markets and medicine to politics, cybersecurity, creativity and relationships, Petralia presses AI to explain what it can (and cannot) do and where its growing influence might take us.
Now in his 80s, Petralia has already witnessed decades of technologies arrive with promises to change the world. A longtime writer on science, technology and business, he approaches AI with curiosity but little reverence, challenging its answers, questioning its logic and pushing back when the machine seems evasive. He said the resulting conversation is at times surprising, funny, unsettling and thought-provoking.
“Interview with the Monster AI asks questions that increasingly confront all of us,” he said. “What can AI really do? Where does it fail? Can we trust what it tells us? Just how much power are we willing to give it?
“I looked to explore artificial intelligence and its potential impact on medicine, money, politics, work and everyday life.”
The book also explores a question especially relevant to the older generation: How can adults over age 60 use AI as a practical tool for learning, problem-solving and navigating everyday life?
Petralia also based parts of the book on personal AI anecdotes from friends.
“We know a couple who drive a Tesla,” he said. “Its voice was becoming rather bothersome in that it seemed like it was eavesdropping. It made them feel uncomfortable enough to start driving another car.”
This is Petralia’s first major work since he and his wife, Nancy Petralia, co-authored Not In a Tuscan Villa, which was published in 2013. They had never planned on becoming authors in retirement, but a shared love of travel, history and Italy led to the book, which went on to sell approximately 30,000 copies through Amazon.
That unexpected success launched an entirely new chapter. The couple went on to write Looking for Garibaldi and Without Provenance, which spoke to audiences about Italian travel, history and culture. They ultimately founded Chartiers Creek Press, their own independent publishing company.
Today, the Petralias are not only publishing their own work, but helping other authors reach readers as well. Their growing catalog reflects the curiosity and love of conversation that have driven much of their life together. The common thread is endless curiosity. Rather than slowing down, they continue to write, publish, speak and explore new ideas. Their story is proof that a second act can be every bit as exciting as the first and that some of life’s most meaningful work can begin after retirement.
The book is available for purchase at amazon.com.
