Definitions

To help better understand the terms and issues contained here, we have elected to put the definitions and concepts which are related to AI up front. Best that the reader has access to this information early, to better grasp the fundamentals going forward. 

*Word definitions as provided by dictionary.com

Algorithm – noun

Mathematics. a set of rules for solving a problem in a finite number of steps, such as the Euclidean algorithm for finding the greatest common divisor.

1. an ordered set of instructions recursively applied to transform data input into processed data output, such as a mathematical solution, search engine result, descriptive statistics, or predictive text suggestions.

Artificial – adjective

1. Made by human skill; produced by humans ( natural):  artificial flowers.

Synonyms: synthetic

2. Imitation; simulated; sham: artificial vanilla flavoring.

Synonyms: factitious, counterfeit

Antonyms: real, genuine

3. Lacking naturalness or spontaneity; forced; contrived; feigned:  an artificial smile.

Synonyms: factitious, counterfeit

4. Full of affectation; affected; stilted:  artificial manners; artificial speech.

Synonyms: pretentious

5. Made without regard to the needs of a situation, person, etc.; imposed arbitrarily; unnatural:  artificial rules for dormitory residents.
6. manufactured to resemble a natural gem, in chemical composition or appearance. Compare assembled, imitation, synthetic .

ETF – noun

An ETF, or Exchange-Traded Fund, is a type of investment fund that is traded on stock exchanges, similar to stocks. ETFs are designed to track the performance of a specific index, commodity, currency, or a combination of various assets. Here are some key features of ETFs:

1. Diversification: ETFs typically hold a collection of different assets, which allows investors to gain exposure to a broad market segment or sector without having to purchase individual securities.

2. Liquidity: ETFs can be bought and sold throughout the trading day at market prices, just like stocks. This provides investors with flexibility and the ability to react quickly to market movements.

3. Lower Costs: Generally, ETFs tend to have lower expense ratios compared to mutual funds, making them a cost-effective option for investors.

4. Transparency: Most ETFs regularly disclose their holdings, allowing investors to see the underlying assets in the fund.

5. Tax Efficiency: ETFs often have a tax-efficient structure, which can result in lower capital gains distributions compared to mutual funds.

6. Types of ETFs: There are various types of ETFs, including equity ETFs, bond ETFs, commodity ETFs, sector and industry ETFs, and international ETFs, among others.

Investors can use ETFs for a variety of purposes, including long-term investment strategies, hedging, or gaining exposure to specific market segments or asset classes.

Globalist – noun

1. The term “globalist” can be used positively to describe those who champion global solidarity and internationalism. However, it can also be used pejoratively by critics who oppose such approaches, often arguing that they undermine national sovereignty or local interests. The interpretation of the term often depends on one’s perspective on international relations and global cooperation.

• He is a globalist, whereaswe are nationalists who will put our country
• She is criticalof the president’s globalist foreign policy.

Intelligence – noun

1. The capacity, especially of a particular person or animal, for learning, reasoning, understanding, and similar forms of mental activity; relative aptitude in grasping truths, relationships, meanings, etc.:

I want my daughter’s teachers to nourish her intelligence and curiosity.

Natasha was a chimpanzee of remarkable intelligence, a “genius” among her species.

2. The demonstration or application of a high mental capacity:

He writes with intelligence and wit.

Synonyms: penetration, aptitude, acumen, reason, discernment

Antonyms: stupidity

3. The faculty of understanding, learning, or reasoning, considered generally:

Are there hard limits to human intelligence?

Some questions must be addressed not only with the intelligence but also with the heart.

4. A particular aspect of the ability to perceive, understand, learn, and handle problems, as used in a specified way, area of life, activity, etc.: crystallized intelligence ( def ), fluid intelligence ( def ).

The study examined the effect of emotional intelligence on organizational learning.

I have no mechanical intelligence whatsoever.

5. new or current knowledge or information, such as about specific events, conditions, trends, etc.:

Feeds from 26 mall cameras are analyzed to provide vendors with actionable intelligence about shopping patterns.

6. the gathering or distribution of information, especially secret information:

I’ve decided to pursue a career in intelligence.

His areas of focus include business intelligence, data management, and investment research.

7. 1. information about an enemy or a potential enemy:

We now have new intelligence about terrorist activity in the country.

1. the evaluated conclusions drawn from such information.
2. an organization or agency engaged in gathering such information:

She works for military intelligence.

8. interchange of information:

They have been maintaining intelligence with foreign agents for years.

9. Christian Science. a fundamental attribute of God, or infinite Mind.
10. Often Intelligence. an intelligent being or spirit, especially one without a physical body, such as an angel or Supreme Being:  He believes there is a creative Intelligence behind the universe

Robot – noun

A machine that resembles a human and does mechanical, routine tasks on command.

1. a person who acts and responds in a mechanical, routine manner, usually subject to another’s will, automaton.
2. any machine or mechanical device that operates automatically with humanlike skill.

Virtual – adjective

1. Being as specified in power, force, or effect, though not actually or expressly such:

One of the VPs was the virtual CEO of the company.

2. 1. (of an image, such as one in a mirror) formed by the apparent convergence of rays that are prolonged geometrically, but not actually ( real).
   2. being a focus of a system forming such images.
3. Digital Technology. real, but existing, seen, or happening online or on a digital screen, rather than in person or in the physical world:

You can take a virtual tour of the museum before your visit.

How do I become a virtual personal trainer?

Some students struggle with virtual learning and need the support of a physical classroom.

4. 1. (of a computer, data storage device, operating system, etc.) simulated or extended by software, sometimes temporarily, in such a way as to function and appear to the user as a physical entity:

You can create a virtual disk in RAM, or virtual storage on a hard disk.

2. relating or belonging to virtual reality:

The headset and controller allow users to do things like draw images and wave wands in the virtual world.

Your swing determines the path of the ball and where it lands on the virtual golf course, just as if it were played on a real one.