1912-1954

English Mathematician

The English mathematician Alan Turing is best known for his pioneering work in the area of computers and artificial intelligence. His concept of the Universal Turing Machine helped the allies break the German Enigma code in WWII, and his inquiries into artificial intelligence established the core theoretical and philosophical problems for AI research.

Turing was born into a middle-class English family, both parents being involved with the British colony in India. He was left in the care of another couple when his parents returned to India in 1913, and this, along with the realization of his own homosexuality as he grew older, caused Turing to develop an aloof nature and a disregard for social niceties. As a boy his intelligence was displayed through his interest in organic chemistry and cryptography, though he also showed an impatience for learning fundamentals when deeper problems piqued his...