Singularity

Updated: 04/02/2019 by Computer Hope
Illustration of a black hole.

In math and science, a singularity is a point on an object that is undefined or infinite. The object may be abstract, such as a mathematical function, or real, such as a black hole. Singularities are often depicted in science fiction as a place or moment in time at which the laws of physics break down.

With artificial intelligence, the singularity is a theoretical time in the future when self-improving technology accelerates beyond human control. The term was first used by John von Neumann to describe his vision that technology will one day "explode" in a chain reaction of self-advancement, after which humanity's role is unknown.

Artificial Intelligence terms, Cyberpunk