It's not AI we should be concerned about. It's the humans!

Amidst the discourse on the myriad advantages predicted from the integration of AI, a pivotal element often escapes notice:

The humans!

About this article

This piece isn't another exploration of the intricacies of AI functionalities or the flashy feats it can achieve (though undeniably impressive).

If you're seeking insights into the human dimension, particularly in the context of our efforts to catch up with the accelerating pace of AI development, then read on.

The Tech we Create

Technology, far from being neutral in values, remains susceptible to manipulation.

In shaping the trajectory of our future, we, as humans, wield a significant choice.

Humans are the architects of this technology, and its ownership is distinctly human. The benefits and profits derived from its utilization accrue to us, the human creators.

AI - meet Human. Human meet AI

In discussions on artificial intelligence (AI), much emphasis is placed on the potential benefits it brings. However, as leaders and HR professionals, we must recognize that the true focal point is not AI itself, but rather the humans driving its development and utilization.

While AI experts tout the advantages of AI implementation, the critical element often overlooked is the human factor. Technology is not values-neutral, and it is susceptible to manipulation. As leaders, we have a responsibility to approach the integration of AI with wisdom, focusing on how it impacts the human situation in the age of AI.

Ignorance is Bliss?

One striking observation lies in the naivety of some top management in companies regarding AI. Often, AI discussions lean towards the latest breakthroughs and potential advancements, creating an unbalanced perspective on the technology's ramifications. Leaders must maintain a balanced approach, weighing both the pros and cons, especially considering the responsibility we hold for our people.

For the first time in history, we have technology capable of autonomous creation, but concurrently, we are facing planetary boundaries with the fate of our planet resting in the hands of everyday humans, not just military or secretive government agencies. Leaders need to adopt a wisdom-centric approach, considering the meta-crisis we face rather than isolating individual aspects.

Technology is not Values-Neutral

As Daniel Schmachtenberger points out in his article on Technology:

The widespread adoption of new technologies always has unintended consequences. Through the natural course of innovation, many technologies co-evolve to form distinct technology ecosystems with emergent and highly complex impacts.

The car determined how we built our cities, and therefore which places were valued and which were not. Vehicles shaped how we distributed and accessed food, social interaction, and employment, which altered our relationships, families, and livelihoods. At the same time, they disconnected people from the local economy and community, generated harmful emissions, and had a major impact on health and well-being. There is almost no aspect of modern Western life that has not been impacted by the automobile.

...there are inevitable and unexpected impacts of technologies on both the human mind and society as a whole. For most of history, the process of tech design has either assumed that such second-and third-order effects do not occur or that tech innovation is net positive. This approach is called “technological orthodoxy”, and it views technology as neutral with regard to human values. This must change if humanity is to survive in a world of ever-increasing technological presence and complexity. At this moment in history, it is essential that we adopt an approach to design that accounts for how tech affects the way people think and behave.

A Balanced Approach to AI

A balanced evaluation of technology, including AI, requires a consideration of both positive and negative aspects concerning its impact on humans. While many enthusiasts are optimistic about the future, it is our duty as leaders to critically assess technology and plan for unforeseen effects.

Acknowledging that workers will transition into new roles with the rise of AI is crucial. However, not everyone can seamlessly fill these roles, potentially leading to job losses and disruptions in livelihoods. Instead of hastily embracing new technology, leaders must adopt a cautious approach, considering the potential revolutionary or destructive impacts on organizations and the planet.

Short-term focus blinds Long-term Consequences

Concepts like "fail often and fail fast" are not universally applicable. A more balanced perspective is essential. To guide organizations in adopting a holistic and robust view on technology, including AI, I've developed a keynote specifically tailored for leaders and HR teams. This approach aims for long-term success while responsibly leading our people into the future.

It is paramount to define our values and the meaning we attribute to technology. As technology progresses, leaders must actively guide its development, ensuring ethical considerations are at the forefront, preventing technology from becoming a threat to humanity.

Techno-optimists and Universal Functionality:

The discourse surrounding technology often hinges on the divide between techno-optimists and skeptics. Techno-optimists champion the idea that technology primarily concerns itself with universal functionality, emphasizing what works for everyone. This perspective prioritizes efficiency, convenience, and broad accessibility. However, it tends to overlook the moral dimensions inherent in technological advancements. The focus is on practicality, often sidelining considerations of ethical implications and universal morality.

Lessons from the Last Century: Rethinking Our Approach:

The technological developments of the last century have yielded unparalleled progress but have also exposed vulnerabilities in our fundamental approach. As we witness the impact of technology on the fabric of our minds, relationships, and cultures, it becomes imperative to reassess our trajectory. The historical context prompts us to acknowledge that a continuation of current practices without a paradigm shift is likely to perpetuate damages to the core of our humanity.

Constraining Technology with Human Values:

In envisioning future technologies, it is paramount that we incorporate human values into the design process. This entails methods that genuinely take into account the limits of human experience—sanity, dignity, and justice. By doing so, technology becomes a tool that not only meets functional requirements but is also intricately bound to the well-being and moral principles inherent in the human experience.

The Unintended Consequences: Impact of Technological Designs: The GPS

As Daniel points points out, the GPS device on a smartphone serves as a tangible illustration of technology's unintended consequences. While designed for the practical purpose of navigation, it inadvertently shapes behavior and reliance on technology for a sense of safety and direction. This dual nature of technology, wherein it influences behavior beyond its explicit functionalities, underscores the broader impact of technological design on human behavior, values, and thought processes.

Empowerment through Technology and Rejecting Opt-Outs:

Choosing to opt-out of adopting new technologies may seem like a principled stance against potential drawbacks. However, this perspective argues that such a decision renders individuals increasingly disempowered in an interconnected world.

Axiological design challenges the dichotomy of viewing technology as either inherently good or bad. Instead, it encourages understanding technology as intrinsically value-laden, capable of influencing and shaping human experiences. In rejecting the notion of technology as an all-encompassing threat, it advocates for a more nuanced and proactive engagement with technological innovation.

Axiological Design: Integrating Intrinsic Values:

In response to the techno-optimist paradigm, a novel approach emerges in the form of axiological design. This approach proposes a nuanced understanding of technology by acknowledging and leveraging the intrinsic values encoded in technology-human interfaces. Unlike the techno-optimist's emphasis on functionality alone, axiological design suggests that technology can and should embody and align with fundamental human values. This shift challenges the conventional belief that technology operates in a moral vacuum.

Leaders Need to Play an Active Role in the Development and implementation of Technology

As leaders, it's imperative that we avoid adopting a passive stance towards AI, merely reacting to unfolding trends at an exponential pace. Instead, we must proactively steer this ship with unwavering awareness, making well-informed decisions. Taking an active role in determining the technology we implement and comprehending its broader implications is crucial. We must evolve into co-creators rather than firefighters, as there's no doubt that a significant challenge lies ahead!

I've crafted a compelling keynote tailored for leaders, offering profound insights to guide informed and wise decisions for both their own future and the future of their teams. To delve into the transformative impact this topic can have on your company, seize the opportunity to have me speak at your event.

Rishad

About Rishad Ahmed

Rishad Ahmed is an international speaker, Leadership coach, Author and Mentor who has worked with Fortune 100 companies globally.

He brings transformative wisdom to your organization to help leaders create a culture which will leave an indelible mark on your employees, your leadership and your bottom line.

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References:

Schmachtenberger. D. Technology is Not Values Neutral: Ending the Reign of Nihilistic Design. Jun 26, 2022