AI, let's not screw it up this time

In the age of rapid technological advancement, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force. As AI continues to evolve, it is crucial that we, as humans, evolve alongside it. This means not only learning to use AI effectively but also understanding its implications and potential risks.

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AI Revolution

AI has the potential to revolutionize various aspects of our lives. For instance, AI-powered tools like ChatGPT can serve as a valuable resource for learning and self-improvement. They can provide instant access to vast amounts of information, facilitate personalized learning experiences, and even help us develop new skills. For example, AI can be used to create personalized learning plans based on an individual's learning style and pace. This can make learning more efficient and enjoyable, thereby encouraging continuous self-improvement.

I am a software engineer, and although I didn’t embrace tools like ChatGPT as a code-assist tool from the beginning, I have now. For example, every time I am looking for a pattern to use or have a question about an specific block of code, I can use ChatGPT or Google Bard to get some insights. The process is similar to what it is when using online resources such as Google search or StackOverflow.com, but with ChatGPT and Google Bard, you get to the answer right away, less clicking and you can continue to personalize the answer you are looking for based on your specific needs.

The Risks of AI

However, the increasing reliance on AI also comes with risks. One of the most significant is the potential for AI to exacerbate feelings of loneliness and isolation. As we spend more time interacting with AI systems, we may find ourselves spending less time interacting with other humans. This can lead to a decrease in meaningful human connections, which are crucial for our mental and emotional well-being.

Moreover, as AI becomes more sophisticated, there is a risk that we may become overly dependent on it, leading to a decline in our own skills and abilities. This is a phenomenon known as "skill atrophy," which refers to the loss or degradation of skills due to lack of use.

Even online interactions that we currently have when looking for solutions given the example I mentioned above under AI Revolution, are going to be less and far in between. Talking to an AI vs. a group of humans as you do in a forum like StackOverflow.com to get the answers you need is a prime example of replacing human communication with an AI.

The Risks we missed with Social Media and its negative effects

Also, let’s don’t forget the impact of social media platforms on mental health, particularly among adolescents, is a topic of growing concern. My personal belief is that AI can significantly increase this issue.

Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have been linked to increased feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety among users. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology found a significant correlation between time spent on social media and negative mental health outcomes, including loneliness and depression¹.

Moreover, these platforms can also contribute to a phenomenon known as "social comparison," where individuals compare their lives to the often idealized representations of others' lives that they see on social media. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem.

In a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, Sen. Richard Blumenthal, a Connecticut Democrat, condemned big tech companies, stating that they are exacerbating a mental health crisis among young people and aggravating the issue with toxic content. Emma Lembke, a college sophomore, also spoke at the hearing, recalling how her physical and mental health suffered as her screen time on Instagram increased.

President Biden has also criticized the impact of social media companies on mental health, calling for bipartisan legislation to regulate Big Tech.

These examples underscore the need for careful regulation and responsible use of social media, and more importantly, AI. As we move forward, it is crucial that we are mindful of these risks and take steps to mitigate them.

The Human Imperative

To prevent these risks, we must take a proactive approach to our interaction with AI. This includes continuously learning and adapting to new technologies, maintaining a balanced lifestyle, and fostering meaningful human connections.

We must also ensure that we are using AI as a tool to enhance our capabilities, rather than as a crutch that leads to skill atrophy. This means actively seeking opportunities to apply and improve our skills, even as we leverage AI to make our lives easier.

Furthermore, we must be mindful of the impact of AI on our social interactions. While AI can facilitate communication and connection, it is no substitute for genuine human interaction. We must therefore make a conscious effort to maintain and cultivate our human relationships, even in an increasingly digital world.

The movie "Her"² provides a poignant illustration of the potential implications of AI on our social interactions and emotional well-being. In the movie, the protagonist, Theodore, forms a deep emotional connection with an AI operating system, Samantha. As Theodore becomes increasingly attached to Samantha, he begins to withdraw from his human relationships. This highlights the potential for AI to contribute to feelings of loneliness and isolation, even as it provides a semblance of companionship.

Conclusion

In conclusion, as we navigate the age of AI, it is our responsibility to ensure that we are using this technology in a way that benefits us, rather than harms us. By harnessing the power of AI while mitigating its risks, we can ensure that we continue to grow and thrive in the digital age.