The rapid advancement of AI can be a cause for concern for some, and rightly so. Throughout history, obsolescence has been a crucial factor in human progress. Each period of human civilization, marked by new inventions, cultural shifts, or intellectual revolutions, has inevitably left behind remnants of outdated eras.
Whether it’s the horse-drawn plows of agrarian societies or the once-groundbreaking VCRs of just a few decades ago, the passage of time has seen the old replaced by the innovative. The important question that arises is this: “Is human cognition also under threat of becoming obsolete?”
AI and human cognition
Human cognition was once thought to be immune to change, but artificial intelligence has altered that. Machines like GPT, once simple tools, are now evolving entities with the potential to redefine the boundaries of cognition. Large Language Models (LLMs) can “think,” breaking down what was once believed to be unique to humans.
AI’s rise has far-reaching implications for human skills. Traditionally, machines replicated and exceeded human physical abilities, but now they can perform tasks once exclusive to humans. AI marks a shift in cognition and skills, challenging human boundaries.
The convergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and human cognition encompasses not only technology, but also philosophy and ethics. Throughout history, every significant technological advancement has been met with societal trepidation.
The printing press, electricity, and the internet were all received with a mix of awe and apprehension. Similarly, the introduction of AI into our cognitive domain is no exception.
Approaching the current juncture with balanced optimism is crucial when it comes to AI. With AI, there are opportunities for growth, breaking barriers, and ushering in a new era of collaboration between man and machine.
By understanding the capabilities and limitations of AI and integrating them into our societal fabric, we can ensure that AI serves as an extension of human potential, even in the context of autonomous functionality.
However, there are also valid concerns.
The rapid advancements in AI technology combined with its widespread application necessitate the establishment of ethical guidelines.
The process of becoming obsolete and evolving is a continuous cycle, where each era has its own challenges and prospects. We are currently at a crucial point, and our actions will determine the direction of our relationship with AI.
By engaging in meaningful conversations, having a collaborative mindset, and keeping ethical considerations in mind, we can pave the way for a future where AI not only enhances human cognition but also amplifies our collective potential.
Therefore, the future is not about becoming obsolete; it’s about evolving together, collaborating harmoniously, and achieving the best outcome for both man and machine.
