Top 10 Most Influential Papers in Artificial Intelligence Since 2000
Bo An, Sarit Kraus, Michael Wooldridge · IEEE Intelligent Systems · 2026
To commemorate the 70th anniversary of artificial intelligence (AI), IEEE Intelligent Systems has identified the 10 most impactful articles in AI published since 2000, marking the field’s evolution from its 1956 origins into a foundational pillar of modern science. The selection process combined rigorous quantitative indicators with the informed judgment of a panel of distinguished experts. The resulting list reflects a broad consensus on the milestones that have redefined AI, spanning the diverse and multifaceted landscape of the discipline. Together, these landmark articles laid the foundations for modern AI and continue to influence its evolution.