Human Computer
The term "computer", in use from the mid 17th century, meant "one who computes": a person performing mathematical calculations, before electronic computers became commercially available. Teams of people were frequently used to undertake long and often tedious calculations; the work was divided so that this could be done in parallel.
Since the end of the 20th century, the term "human computer" has also been applied to individuals with prodigious powers of mental arithmetic, also known as mental calculators. The first time the term "Computer" appeared in the New York Times was in May 2, 1892; the ad by the US Civil Service Commission stated:
- "A Computer Wanted. The examination will include the subjects of algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and astronomy."
Read more about Human Computer: Origins in Astronomy, Wartime Computing and The Invention of Electronic Computing
Famous quotes containing the words human and/or computer:
“No Raven’s wing can stretch the flight so far
As the torn bandrols of Napoleon’s war.
Choose then your climate, fix your best abode,
He’ll make you deserts and he’ll bring you blood.
How could you fear a dearth? have not mankind,
Tho slain by millions, millions left behind?
Has not conscription still the power to weild
Her annual faulchion o’er the human field?
A faithful harvester!”
—Joel Barlow (1754–1812)
“Family life is not a computer program that runs on its own; it needs continual input from everyone.”
—Neil Kurshan (20th century)