Why Is Artificial Intelligence Capitalized in AP Style? An Explanation
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a rapidly growing field that has transformed numerous industries, including healthcare, finance, and technology. However, many writers and editors in the journalism and publishing industries have been puzzled by the capitalization of the phrase “Artificial Intelligence” in AP Style. Is it a proper noun or a common noun? In this article, we will shed light on this question and provide a comprehensive explanation of the AP Style protocols for capitalization.
Capitalization of Artificial Intelligence in AP Style
The AP Stylebook, the bible for journalists and many other writers, provides guidance on a wide range of issues, including capitalization. According to the AP Stylebook, proper nouns should be capitalized, while common nouns should not. For instance, we capitalize the name of a person, a place, or a brand, but we do not capitalize the name of a common noun, such as “table” or “book.”
So, is “Artificial Intelligence” a proper noun or a common noun? The answer is not straightforward. “Artificial Intelligence” refers to a field of research that encompasses a wide range of technologies and applications, such as natural language processing, machine learning, and robotics. In this sense, it can be seen as a common noun. However, “Artificial Intelligence” also refers to a specific technology, software, or product that is unique and is therefore a proper noun.
In AP Style, “Artificial Intelligence” is capitalized when it refers to a specific technology, software, or product. For instance, we write “IBM’s Watson uses Artificial Intelligence to diagnose diseases” or “Google’s AlphaGo is an Artificial Intelligence program that beat the world champion of Go.” In these cases, “Artificial Intelligence” refers to a proprietary technology or application that belongs to a specific brand, company, or project.
However, when “Artificial Intelligence” is used to describe a general field of research or an academic discipline, it is not capitalized, as it is seen as a common noun. For instance, we write “Artificial Intelligence is transforming the healthcare industry” or “The Department of Computer Science offers a course in artificial intelligence.”
Why Capitalization Matters in Journalism and Publishing
Capitalization may seem like a minor detail, but it can have a significant impact on the clarity and accuracy of a piece of writing. In journalism and publishing, consistency is key, and capitalization is a crucial aspect of building a consistent and recognizable style. If a writer or editor consistently fails to capitalize “Artificial Intelligence” correctly, readers may perceive the publication as unprofessional or careless.
Moreover, capitalization can also affect the interpretation and meaning of a sentence. For instance, consider the following examples:
– “The company uses artificial intelligence to improve customer service.”
– “The Company uses Artificial Intelligence to improve customer service.”
In the first sentence, “artificial intelligence” is used as a common noun, implying that any type of technology or software is used to improve customer service. However, in the second sentence, “Artificial Intelligence” is capitalized, suggesting that the company has developed a unique and proprietary technology that is called “Artificial Intelligence,” and that is used for customer service.
Conclusion
In summary, the capitalization of “Artificial Intelligence” in AP Style depends on the context and the use of the term. When “Artificial Intelligence” refers to a specific technology, software, or product, it is capitalized as a proper noun. However, when “Artificial Intelligence” is used to describe a general field of research or an academic discipline, it is not capitalized, as it is seen as a common noun.
Capitalization may seem like a minor detail, but it can make a big difference in journalism and publishing, where consistency and accuracy are essential for building a credible and professional style. By following the AP Stylebook guidelines for capitalization, writers and editors can ensure their texts are clear, accurate and readable.
