This book investigates the foundational principles and practical applications of artificial intelligence, specifically through the lens of the BASIC programming language. Authored by M. James, the text aims to demystify AI concepts for a readership familiar with BASIC, providing a bridge between theoretical AI and accessible implementation. It likely covers topics such as search algorithms, knowledge representation, and basic machine learning techniques, all demonstrated with executable BASIC code examples. The work serves as an early guide for programmers looking to explore the nascent field of AI using a widely available programming tool.

Given its publication date and focus on BASIC, this book likely served as an introductory text for programmers seeking to understand early AI concepts. The technical depth would have been constrained by the capabilities of BASIC and the computing power of the era. Its value today lies in its historical perspective on AI development and its demonstration of fundamental algorithms in a foundational programming language.