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 life. 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 do algorithms surpass ourselves 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 problems associated with the use of artificial intelligence? The author does not give definitive answers to these questions, but explains their importance and encourages the reader to reflect on them.