In the realm of science fiction, envisioning a world dominated by super-intelligent Artificial Intelligence (super-AI) sparks curiosity and contemplation. Films like “Wall-E” and literary works such as Iain M. Banks’ “Culture” series paint vivid pictures of societies. In these societies, humans coexist with advanced AI, freed from the constraints of traditional labour. While these narratives may seem distant, OpenAI’s ChatGPT exemplifies recent advancements in generative AI. These advancements bring the possibility closer to reality than ever before. The exponential growth in AI capabilities, forecasted by experts to exceed human expertise within the next decade. This raises profound questions about the future of humanity in such a world.
AI: The Ultimate Tool
In contemplating this future, we make several assumptions. Firstly, we assume AI to be benevolent and controllable, serving as a tool rather than a dominant force. We envision AI as virtual entities, capable of superintelligence but distinct from human consciousness. Furthermore, we anticipate that societal norms and values will endure, preventing the worship or subjugation of AI. In this scenario, AI becomes a catalyst for economic growth, revolutionizing production processes and scientific discovery.
Economists Philippe Aghion, Ben Jones, and Chad Jones explored the transformative potential of AI in their 2019 study. They suggested that if AI could automate all production, including research, exponential economic growth becomes feasible. This vision hinges on AI’s ability to collaborate on complex problems, unlocking unprecedented scientific advancements. However, the economists caution that if AI only partially automates production, growth may stagnate, constrained by the inefficiencies of manual labour.
Baumol’s Dilemma and the Human Premium
The concept of a “human premium,” proposed by economist William Baumol, sheds light on the potential challenges of a world dominated by AI. Baumol’s research on wages in the performing arts highlighted sectors where productivity gains are minimal. This leads to a disproportionate share of resources allocated to non-automatable industries. This phenomenon, observed throughout history, suggests that certain human-centric endeavors resist automation due to their intrinsic value.
In a future where AI surpasses human capabilities, the human premium becomes a defining factor in economic dynamics. Jobs requiring physical interaction or emotional intelligence retain their relevance, even as AI handles cognitive tasks. Additionally, areas where humans possess a unique advantage, such as creative expression or personal connection, thrive despite technological advancements.
The Intersection of Work and Play
One area where humans maintain a distinct advantage is in activities that blur the line between work and play. As working hours decrease, individuals pursue endeavours driven by personal fulfillment rather than financial gain. The pursuit of status and intellectual challenges becomes a driving force, manifesting in fields like academia or competitive gaming. Despite AI’s capabilities, humans continue to find meaning and satisfaction in endeavours that transcend material wealth.
Preserving the Human Touch
Moreover, humans excel in providing intangible goods and services imbued with personal significance. Whether it’s storytelling, caregiving, or creating unique artifacts, humans offer a level of authenticity and emotional resonance that AI struggles to replicate. In a world flooded with AI-generated content, the “made by human” label becomes a mark of distinction. This commands premium value in the marketplace.
Navigating the Future
As society copes with the implications of super-AI, fundamental questions about human identity and purpose emerge. Will humans relinquish control to machines? Or will they assert their unique value in an increasingly automated world? The interplay between AI’s capabilities and humanity’s intrinsic desires will shape the trajectory of society. It reveals the true essence of what it means to be human in a world dominated by artificial intelligence.
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