Empower Humanity In Age Of AI

Homo sapiens possess the most intelligent brains among all living beings on earth. This intelligence has been used throughout history for both the well-being and destruction of life on the planet. The atomic bomb, for instance, remains an object of fear and awe. Its devastating use in Japan not only altered the lives of its people but also transformed the country’s landscape and ecology irrevocably. Now, the advent of artificial intelligence (AI) is another groundbreaking creation of the human brain. The question remains: will it become even more alarming than the atomic bomb? 

AI, a human innovation, has given rise to machines capable of equalling or even surpassing the intelligence of the majority of humans. This intelligence, demonstrated by machines rather than humans or animals, has become a day-to-day reality for all of us. Remarkably, scientists still do not fully understand the human brain — its intricate functions, structures, and potential. The approximately 86 billion neurons forming the neural network within the human mind remain largely unexplored, leaving much to uncover about our maximum cognitive capabilities.

The evolution and progress of Homo sapiens have allowed them to dominate the planet, inventing technologies that propel civilisation forward. Yet, such creations often bring both positive and negative consequences. Moreover, these advancements are not equally accessible to everyone. The unequal distribution of resources creates disparities in access to power, favouring the “haves” over the “have-nots.” This inequity means that scientific and technological progress is frequently controlled by the most powerful, who use it for their benefit. The control of nuclear power is a prime example. 

Disproportionate power

Current conflicts in various parts of the world illustrate how those with access to advanced weaponry, or alliances with those who do, wield disproportionate power. After the advent of AI, it has been seen that the powerful politicians and the rich industrialists have used it for their benefits more than the general population of the world. Although human brains will likely always surpass AI in creativity and emotional intelligence, critical questions remain: who will have access to the most advanced AI technologies, and how will they be used? Will AI benefit all living beings, or will it serve only a privileged few?

During a panel discussion on "Combating Misinformation in the Age of AI" at the Kathmandu Conference on Communication and Media 2024, organised by the Central Department of Journalism and Mass Communication (CDJMC), Tribhuvan University, in collaboration with the Centre for Media Research-Nepal (CMR-Nepal), various aspects of AI were explored. While journalism students were excited about AI’s potential to simplify their work, many admitted they still did not fully understand how to optimise its use. 

The potential for AI to assist us in thinking, learning, and solving problems — both in our professional and personal lives — is undeniably positive. This is particularly relevant as modern lifestyles become increasingly individualistic and lonely. However, it is essential to understand how AI influences our thought patterns, decision-making, and daily activities. From morning to bedtime, most people rely on mobile phones, laptops, and other devices to organise their lives. Often without our awareness, networks of machines track our preferences and behaviours. Therefore, it is crucial to educate young people, even before they graduate high school, about how AI functions. 

This education should focus on leveraging AI’s positive impacts while avoiding its potential pitfalls, such as its association with crimes, addiction, and mental health issues. As AI is actually driven by humans, the age-old fact of oppressive mindsets is transferred to machines too. Gender-based discrimination and violence against women, children, the elderly, and individuals from the LGBTQI community have found new avenues to proliferate in the digital age, often fuelled by AI-driven technologies. From deepfakes to online harassment, AI tools are increasingly being misused to create harmful content that perpetuates stereotypes, invades privacy, and exacerbates mental health challenges for vulnerable groups.

 Algorithms on social media platforms often amplify misogynistic or discriminatory content, leading to a toxic digital environment. Additionally, biased AI systems can perpetuate inequalities, such as in hiring processes or law enforcement tools, further marginalising these communities. Addressing such issue requires a multi-faceted approach - the governments must enforce stringent regulations, technology developers need to prioritise ethical AI design, and users should be educated on identifying and combating digital harm. By creating safeguards and promoting inclusivity, AI can evolve into a tool that uplifts rather than oppresses marginalised groups 

Responsive use 

Every profession and individual can benefit from AI to enhance productivity and well-being. However, achieving this requires widespread knowledge and skill development. Educational institutions and workplaces must teach professionals and students to use AI responsibly and effectively. While AI is here to stay, it is vital to ensure we do not become entirely dependent on it. Instead, we should learn to use it as a tool, maintaining ownership of our work and lives. The first point to be understood is that at the other end of these systems are individuals or organisations seeking profits or influence. By understanding this dynamic, we can become smarter users of AI, utilising it to access knowledge and improve our lives.

As AI continues to evolve, governments and businesses in developing countries should prioritise creating education systems that teach people — both in rural and urban areas—how to harness these technologies. By equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills to utilise local resources sustainably, we can create livelihoods that improve communities and protect the environment. The human brain’s remarkable capacity for innovation should be harnessed to benefit all living beings on earth. By combining human ingenuity with AI’s capabilities, we can work toward a brighter future, protecting the planet and ensuring access to employment, education, and basic needs for all. It is time to build the capacity of citizens worldwide to understand AI’s potential and use it to create a sustainable, equitable future.

(Sharma is a senior journalist and women’s rights advocate. namrata1964@yahoo.com or on X @NamrataSharmaP.)