Artificial Intelligence: Foundations of Computational Agents (2017) 2nd Edition is a comprehensive textbook that provides a thorough introduction to the fundamentals of artificial intelligence (AI) and its applications. Written by David Poole and Alan Mackworth, two prominent experts in the field of AI, this book is designed to be accessible to students with no prior knowledge of the subject.

The book begins by defining AI and exploring the different approaches to designing intelligent agents. It then delves into the basics of logic and mathematical reasoning, which form the foundation of many AI techniques. The authors provide a detailed overview of search algorithms, including informed and uninformed search methods, and discuss their applications in solving problems.

The book also covers machine learning, a key area of AI that involves teaching computers to learn from data. The authors explain the different types of machine learning algorithms, such as supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning, and provide examples of how they can be used in real-world applications.

One of the unique features of this book is its focus on the interaction between agents and their environment. The authors discuss how agents perceive and act on their environment, and how they can learn from their experiences to improve their performance. They also explore the concept of multi-agent systems, where multiple agents interact with each other to achieve a common goal.

Throughout the book, the authors provide numerous examples and exercises that help students understand the concepts and apply them to real-world problems. The second edition includes updated material on deep learning, natural language processing, and robotics, making it a valuable resource for students and professionals alike.

Overall, Artificial Intelligence: Foundations of Computational Agents (2017) 2nd Edition is an excellent resource for anyone interested in learning about AI. With its clear explanations, practical examples, and comprehensive coverage of the subject, it is an ideal textbook for undergraduate and graduate students, as well as professionals in the field.