This book reviews the wide range of theoretical limitations and practical constraints of computer problem solving. Topics such as the Halting Problem and combinatorial explosion are treated as abstract or theoretical considerations. Difficulties of writing specifications and security issues are identified on a more practical level. Written in an informal, entertaining style, the book begins with a general overview of how computers are used to solve problems. Subsequent chapters treat each step of the problem-solving process.
Intended to fill the gap between highly technical books and lower-level texts, this book is appropriate for general audiences, introductory computer science courses, computer literacy courses, and anyone interested in the social issues and implications of computing.
Table of Contents
Preface
Part I: INTRODUCTION
1. An Overview of Computing
PART II: THE NATURE OF PROBLEMS AND PROBLEM SOLVING
2. Stating Problems (What Is th Problem?)
3. Unsolvability
4. Nonfeasibility
PART III: HARDWARE
5. Hardware and Reliability
PART IV: Software
6. Program Correctness
7. Simulation
8. Human Factors
9. Security Issues
PART V: CONCLUSIONS
10. The Role of Computers
A Short, Annotated Bibliography
Index

Limits of Computing (Jones and Bartlett Series in Computer Science)

The limits of computing

Henry M. Walker

Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC

United States, United States of America

Boston, Massachusetts, 1994

First Edition, US, 1994

First Edition, 1993

Includes bibliographical references (p. 199-200) and index.

xv, 205 pages : 24 cm
Includes bibliographical references (pages 199-200) and index
1. An overview of computing -- 2. Stating problems (what is the problem?) -- 3. Unsolvability -- 4. Nonfeasibility -- 5. Hardware and reliability -- 6. Program correctness -- 7. Simulation -- 8. Human factors -- 9. Security issues -- 10. The role of computers

2023-06-28