Artificial intelligence (AI) is viewed as one of the technological advances that will reshape modern societies and their relations. While the design and deployment of systems that continually adapt hold the promise of far-reaching, positive change, they simultaneously pose significant risks, especially to already vulnerable people. This work explores the meaning of AI, and the important role of critical understanding and its phenomenological foundation in shaping its ongoing advances. The values, power, and magic of reason are central to this discussion. Critical theory has used historical hindsight to explain the patterns of power that shape our intellectual, political, economic, and social worlds, and the discourse on AI that surrounds these worlds. The authors also delve into niche topics in philosophy such as transcendental self-awareness, post-humanism, and concepts of space-time and computer logic. By embedding a critical phenomenological orientation within their technical practices, AI communities can develop foresight and tactics that can better align research and technology development with established ethical principles — centering vulnerable people who continue to bear the brunt of the negative impacts of innovation and scientific progress. The creation of a critical–technical practice of AI will lead to a permanent revolution in social, scientific, and political communities. The years ahead will usher in a wave of new scientific breakthroughs and technologies driven by AI research, making it incumbent upon AI communities to strengthen the social contract through ethical foresight, a capability which only phenomenology can deliver, ultimately supporting future technologies that enable greater well-being, with the goal of delivering practical truths. A Critical Understanding of Artificial Intelligence: A Phenomenological Foundation is an essential read for anyone interested in the complex debate and phenomenology surrounding AI and its growing role in our society.

Transpersonal psychology is the study of human nature and development that assumes that human beings possess potentials that exceed the limits of ego developed normally. The main goal of transpersonal psychology is to integrate the spiritual experience within a broader understanding of the human psyche and consciousness. Transpersonal Psychology: Altered States of Consciousness, Biofeedback and Neurotechnology introduces the use of biofeedback and neurotechnology for the transpersonal therapist to induce and measure altered states of consciousness to deal with persons having mental conditions. The therapist and the patient can benefit from self-exploration and self-realization of altered consciousness that could be responsible for the mental condition of the patient. Chapters in the book start with an introduction to the theory of consciousness and transpersonal psychology followed by an explanation of the relationship of quantum physics to consciousness model. The book then progresses towards in depth topics such as biofeedback which covers the measurement parameters for understanding consciousness and computer-based technologies that help induce altered states of consciousness. Finally, the book concludes by linking all the concepts together to guide the transpersonal psychologist to measure and support transpersonal psychotherapy through a cybertherapy system. Transpersonal Psychology: Altered States of Consciousness, Biofeedback and Neurotechnology is an ideal guide for the transpersonal psychologist and psychotherapist and the enthusiast who wants to understand the science behind altered states of consciousness from a theoretical and experimental framework.

Changing Humanities and Smart Application of Digital Technologies is a collection of research articles relevant to digital humanities (the use of technology to advance our understanding of the humanities). A key aim of this volume is to demonstrate the potential of using computer technology to creating new humanistic knowledge-based systems through innovative applications. Readers will learn about applications in digital humanities through 11 chapters which explore a variety of computer applications in education and social research. Topics covered in the volume range from the role of internet in understanding, to the more technical domains of GIS and mobile device applications in studying religion, literature, geography, history and games. This volume is a useful reference for scholars and graduate students involved in humanities and social science research, as it provides readers with creative insights into digital technology applications to build on their research goals.

Architecture in Contemporary Literature artfully weaves the tapestry of architecture with the eloquence of modern literary masterpieces. In this follow up to their earlier work on architecture in fictional literature, the editors have carefully selected 31 significant works from contemporary world literature, offering a fresh educational approach to literary critique and architecture. This exploration allows readers to perceive life through the lens of architectural backgrounds. Nature, society, humans, and cities come to life through these chosen literary gems. Extensive collaboration with architects, intellectuals, academics, writers, and thinkers culminates in the selection of influential works that guide present-day architectural perspectives and aspirations. The book promises to be a valuable reference for undergraduate and graduate students in architecture, interior architecture, urban planning, fine arts, humanities, social sciences, and various design disciplines. Yet, its appeal also extends to anyone with an appreciation for urban life and a desire for a broader understanding of the intricacies of architecture. Whether you're an expert in design, culture, art, sociology, or literature, or simply an avid learner, Architecture in Contemporary Literature is a compelling exploration that deserves a prominent place on your bookshelf. Engage with its pages and immerse yourself in the fusion of architectural insight and literary artistry.

Most scientists and engineers are familiar with the name Josef Stefan primarily from the Stefan-Boltzmann law, which relates the amount of energy transferred by radiation to the absolute temperature raised to the fourth power. Stefan determined this law from experimental data, and it was later theoretically verified by his former student, Ludwig Boltzmann. However, it is interesting to know that this is the same Stefan who lent his name to the solid-liquid phase change problem, and concepts related to molecular diffusion and convective motion driven by surface evaporation or ablation. Stefan counted among his students Sigmund Freud, who was so inspired by his physics instructor that he incorporated scientific methods into psychoanalysis. This invaluable book details not only Josef Stefan’s original contributions in these areas, but the current state-of-the-art of his pioneering work.

Public Transportation in Kenya provides an in-depth examination of the significant challenges faced by Kenya’s public transportation system, using a phenomenological approach to highlight the real-world experiences of commuters and stakeholders. The book addresses two primary goals: to explain the severe impact of transportation issues on millions of Kenyans, including loss of livelihoods, disabilities, and fatalities, and to propose solutions aimed at reducing road traffic accidents and improving overall transportation safety. The chapters begin with a review of Kenya's transport studies and current state, followed by an analysis of road traffic accident data and contributing factors. Subsequent sections explore the inadequacies in infrastructure, traffic law and enforcement, and the challenges posed by incomplete data collection. The book also details an innovative study using data mining and natural language processing (NLP) on over one million traffic-related tweets to uncover commuter trends and driver behaviors. The final set of chapters presents comprehensive recommendations for improving road safety, enhancing infrastructure, and reforming policing practices to better manage traffic and transportation issues. Key features of this book include the use of both structured and unstructured data for a robust analysis, practical solutions for policymakers, and an innovative methodological approach utilizing NLP and data mining to analyze the issues presented. References and summaries are also provided in each chapter to make information accessible. These elements make the book a valuable resource for researchers, academics, policymakers, transportation professionals, and anyone interested in the socio-economic impacts of public transportation in Kenya and other African countries. Public Transportation in Kenya is essential reading for those looking to understand and address the critical transportation challenges that affect millions daily, providing insights and solutions that can lead to safer and more efficient transport systems.