If you’ve ever wondered how human intelligence came to be and what it can teach us about the future of AI, A Brief History of Intelligence: Why the Evolution of the Brain Holds the Key to the Future of AIis a must-read. Max Bennett takes readers on an extraordinary journey through 4 billion years of brain evolution, showing how tiny neurons in ancient creatures ultimately built the complex minds we have today and how these same evolutionary insights are shaping artificial intelligence.
Five Evolutionary Breakthroughs That Shaped the Mind
The book is structured around five major evolutionary breakthroughs, each unlocking new cognitive abilities. From the first fish that discovered temporal difference reinforcement learning, an idea that now powers AI systems that beat humans at Go to the surprising ways mouse brains can illuminate AI’s “common sense,” Bennett connects evolutionary neuroscience to modern AI in ways that are both accessible and astonishing.
Fascinating Insights You Won’t Expect
What makes this book so compelling is the way it blends science with storytelling. You’ll find yourself fascinated by insights like how emotions may have evolved from navigation systems in ancient worm brains, or that the neurons in your brain work the same way as those in a jellyfish, the difference lies in how they’re wired. These are the kinds of “aha” moments that make the book hard to put down.
Written by an Expert Bridging AI and Neuroscience
Daniel Kahneman calls it “amazing,” and it’s easy to see why. It’s not just for scientists or tech enthusiasts; anyone curious about how intelligence, learning, and AI intersect will find themselves both informed and inspired. Bennett’s background as an AI entrepreneur and self-taught neuroscientist shines through, making complex concepts digestible without ever oversimplifying.
Why You Should Read It
At 432 pages, it’s a deep dive but never dry. Whether you’re interested in AI, neuroscience, or simply understanding the story of your own mind, this book will expand your thinking and leave you seeing intelligence from worms to humans to machines in a whole new light.
If you’re looking for a book that informs, surprises, and connects the dots between our evolutionary past and the AI-driven future, A Brief History of Intelligence is an absolute must-have.
