this paper, we discuss these questions and describe some emerging technologies that provide answers. In the final section, we mention some additional issues and summarize the key points of the paper. (For more information on agent-based software engineering, see [Genesereth 1989] and [Genesereth 1992]. See also [Shoham 1993] for a description of a variation of agent-based software engineering known as "agent-oriented programming".) 2. Agent Communication Language

In its early stages, the field of artificial intelligence (AI) had as its main goal the invention of computer programs having the general problem solving abilities of humans. Along the way, there developed a major shift of emphasis from general-purpose programs toward "performance programs"---ones whose competence was highly specialized and limited to particular areas of expertise. In this paper I claim that AI is now at the beginning of another transition---one that will re-invigorate efforts to build programs of general, human-like competence. These programs will use specialized performance programs as tools, much like humans do. Keywords: autonomous agents, general problem solving, habile systems Copyright c fl1995 Nils J. Nilsson [This paper is being submitted to the AI Magazine.] 1 Diversions from the Main Goal Over forty years ago, soon after the birth of electronic computers, people began to think that human levels of intelligence might someday be realized in computer program...