This book tells about how humanity gradually, step by step, went to the creation of artificial intelligence and how it became an integral part of our lives. How did scientists, philosophers and writers of different eras imagine artificial intelligence? What mechanisms did our ancestors create to facilitate the solution of mental problems, and in what ways are algorithms superior to us today? How will our relationship with these new entities develop? What - or whom - are we creating: loyal helpers or potential enemies? What are the ethical issues associated with the use of artificial intelligence? The author does not give definitive answers to these questions, but explains why they are important and encourages the reader to reflect on them.