Introduction

Modern information technology permeates and transforms our world—far more intensely than most of us realize. The book describes its origin, history, and essential drivers. It elaborates on the substantial importance the new world power of IT has gained for our social, economic, and political lives. It provides the reader with interesting, easily understandable, and balanced guidance on a complex topic. It highlights major development lines and explains concepts such as artificial intelligence, algorithms, and blockchains.