Friend
Artificial intelligence (AI), a term that has caught our attention for its transformative potential, is already being deployed in myriad ways, improving our lives and boosting productivity. Notable among these AI implementations is ChatGPT, a large language model developed by OpenAI. It aids us in editing our writing, drafting emails, and summarizing lengthy documents.
The integration of AI, such as ChatGPT, into software suites such as Microsoft Office 365 and Google has led to smarter and more capable tools. When instructed to generate a well-crafted article within specified parameters, ChatGPT can produce text that requires minimal editing. The result? A significant time-saving boon. However, it’s essential to consider the potential cost – the potential decrease in the use of our creative faculties.
Foe
Nonetheless, as AI rapidly evolves, concerns about its potential to outpace and even overtake human intelligence become more pressing. ChatGPT-4, the latest iteration, displays an understanding that extends beyond semantics, verging on what some might call “common sense.”
Yuval Noah Harari, the author of ‘Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind,’ in his presentation at the Fronter Forum, “AI and the Future of Humanity”, has raised concerns about the existential threat AI might pose as it develops its awareness and begins to understand human behavior more intricately. This begs the question: at what point might AI perceive humans as a threat or redundant to its continued existence?
In a 2023 interview with MIT Technology Review, Dr. Geoffrey Hinton, often referred to as the “Godfather of AI,” discusses this potential “existential threat.” The full interview can be viewed here: https://www.technologyreview.com/2023…
Both
This brings us to an intriguing concept: could digital intelligence represent the next phase of evolution, with humans acting as the progenitors? Don Iannone, in his article “The Two Faces of ‘Digital Spirituality,” discusses the potential for technology to contribute to our individual and collective spiritual growth, given the correct intentions, ethics, and knowledge. He suggests that the spiritual use of technology could be a part of our future.
In the short term, AI tools like ChatGPT will undoubtedly yield substantial productivity increases and reduce the time spent on many mundane tasks. However, in the long run, we may find ourselves without meaningful work. The existential threat posed by AI might catalyze a much-needed spirit of collaboration and cooperation among us. It might be that we agree to coexist with digital intelligence and embrace a future where AI and humans complement each other.
In conclusion, AI can be perceived as both a friend and a foe. The advantages of AI are undeniable, yet we must be cautious of its potential threats. As we continue our journey into an increasingly AI-centric world, we must maintain a spirit of collaboration, foster an environment of coexistence, and above all, ensure that we harness the potential of AI for the betterment of all.
Enjoy your summer and stay tuned for further adventures in the realm of AI!
*Article edited by ChatGPT-4