Final answer:
AI research in the Seventies and Eighties expanded beyond the military-focused applications of the Fifties, incorporating broader ethical concerns and civilian applications, leading to a more diverse and widespread field of research.
Step-by-step explanation:
Comparing AI research in the Seventies and Eighties with AI research in the Fifties, one of the key differences is the scale and scope of research and development. In the Fifties, efforts were primarily focused on specific military applications, such as missile technology and radar advancements, influenced by the needs of the Cold War. This was exemplified by work from scientists like Alan Turing, who made strides towards mimicking human thought with machines, paving the way for the concept of true artificial intelligence.
However, in the subsequent decades, AI research expanded significantly. It began to integrate concerns over the ethical use of technology, including its impact on individual privacy, job security, and human cognitive and social skills. This era also saw increased industry involvement, with AI applications becoming more prevalent in civilian contexts like self-driving cars and virtual assistants. Leaders in the field began to voice unease over the potential for AI to cause harm if not aligned with human values, as highlighted by philosopher Nick Bostrom.