"A" for "Artificial"

I sometimes get weird looks when I tell programmers my main language is PHP. They wonder why I would choose PHP over other languages. The answer is simple: I think of PHP as a tool, just like any other language, framework, or technology; and it's a tool I know well. I know what it's good at; I know its limitations; I know when to and when not to use it.

Thinking of technology as tools that serve us, each with their purpose; advantages, and disadvantages is equally important when talking about AI. When you look up "artificial" in the dictionary, you'll find these definitions:

Artificial — adjective 1. made by human skill; produced by humans 2. imitation; simulated; sham. 3. lacking naturalness or spontaneity; forced; contrived; feigned

In this hype-driven age, it's good to remember that AI is artificial. It's a tool. Use it in the right way at the right time, and it's a powerful one to have. But just like any programming language, framework, or technology; it is, and will always be, nothing more than a human-made tool.