Humanity's Place in an AI-Driven World
I recently spent a week in Florence, taking some much needed time off after London Tech Week.
The debates about whether AI is a friend or foe and the fear of humanity falling into oblivion amidst AI advancements still echoed in my mind as I landed in the birthplace of the Renaissance.
Many are scared of AI, and even Pope Francis has weighed in, urging politicians at the G7 summit to establish safeguards for AI development. This wasn’t his first time addressing the issue; in December 2023, he called for an international treaty to ensure the ethical development and use of AI.
Humanity's Place in an AI-Driven World
A recurring theme in these discussions was the question of humanity's place in an AI-driven world. How do we carve out a space to survive and thrive? I found my own answer in Florence.
A Moment of Reflection in Florence
I'm not the most devout Catholic by any means, but I attended a Sunday mass at the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. I was moved by the hymns and the powerful organ music, which gave me chills in the most pleasant way. It was a moment to appreciate what humans can achieve—from magnificent architecture to the joy of music. Traditions and ceremonial practices create a sense of togetherness, allowing us to find common beliefs and share our admiration among strangers—something AI cannot replicate.
The Role of AI in Creativity
You might have seen memes about AI taking over creative tasks like writing and drawing, leaving us with mundane chores like washing. However, I believe there's another side to it. Creativity is an outcome of inspiration. When AI is used in the right places, it can free up our time, allowing us to read more, feel more, and experience more of our cultural heritage, feeding into the creative process.
The Human Touch in Creativity
While AI might excel in understanding human history and the universe, it lacks the fundamental human touch in inspiration and creating cultural experiences and meaning in life. When fear arises, people seek refuge. Whether it’s in the name of God or something else, we will unite as human beings, looking for peace and a source of truth against the advancements of technology that we have yet to fully understand.
Advocating for Ethical AI
As an advocate for AI, it is crucial to understand these fears, mitigate the unknowns, and establish safety nets. From my standpoint, this means:
1. Actively listening to user concerns and feedback
2. Continuously conducting thorough risk assessments
3. Ensuring transparency in AI development processes