Bots overrun social media, AI slop inundates search results, and corporations alarm the public about the efficiencies of the latest AI-powered replacements for us all. It seems like any part of information-era society that systemizes will inevitably be automated with computer algorithms, and in a culture that suggests, “monetize everything”, that could mean nearly every facet of our lives. As we decry the situation, we are motivated to be scared of AI and to purchase a solution. In a bid to monetize hope and courage, maybe I could scare you into my standpoint and a subscription, or if not me, maybe some other aggrandizing figure appearing as an anti-capitalist, nationalist, pseudo-intellectual entertainer, or messianic intellectual could. Please beware insincere rhetoric, but moving on, I hope we can agree that we may be liminal participants in societies that we increasingly cannot participate in, and that our time to rationally envision a more excellent response to fear is waning.
“I should learn to use AI tools and be one of the people in charge of AI, and not be a sucker who can’t keep up.” If I enkindle such a view, what is it that I’m afraid of, and is that the right response to fear? Obviously, I’m afraid of irrelevance, but consider, is this about the loss of power? If this is about power, could this be about access to influence, intellect, money, or sexuality? Am I afraid I will fail at social obligations, or never become esteemed or accomplished? Am I insecure about my place and purpose in life? The question of purpose is ancient, and I would take refuge in centuries of wisdom from every cradle of civilization I can, whether it’s as near as Albert Camus, or as distant as Dogen Zenji. However, fulfillment of such an unendingly bookish approach isn’t necessary, since its relevance alone brings to light a basic reassurance: that humanity intends to flourish regardless of circumstance.
So in response to prophecies about AI, I anticipate the future, a likely post-AI reality, and consider works for that world. In such a world where we are gravely diminished or lost members of the societies we were brought into, what kinds of tools and technologies will a person need? So long as anyone exists, the problems of humanity innately persist. So long as I exist, the problems of humanity innately persist through me.