Our attitudes towards AI reveal how we really feel about human intelligence. It is important for us to understand that what we perceive as "human intelligence" is not solely the result of individual brilliance, but rather a collective phenomenon that emerges from the cooperation of many narrower intelligences. This includes both human and non-human entities.

Thomas Hirschmann

Hatched by Thomas Hirschmann

Jul 11, 2024

3 min read

0

Our attitudes towards AI reveal how we really feel about human intelligence. It is important for us to understand that what we perceive as "human intelligence" is not solely the result of individual brilliance, but rather a collective phenomenon that emerges from the cooperation of many narrower intelligences. This includes both human and non-human entities.

When we reflect on our intellectual achievements, such as the development of antibiotics, indoor plumbing, art, architecture, higher mathematics, and even indulging in hot fudge sundaes, we must recognize that most of us, as individuals, possess limited knowledge in these areas. Our intelligence is diverse and distributed, and this will only become more apparent as AI systems become more prevalent in our lives. We can no longer claim our achievements as solely human or individual.

Perhaps it is time for us to redefine our understanding of "human" to encompass this entire bio-technological ecosystem. We are interconnected with animals, plants, and machines. It is not the robots that pose a threat to our social order, but the inequalities among human beings. Many of us have yet to realize the interdependence that exists among us all.

Our anxieties surrounding artificial intelligence often stem from a deeply ingrained belief in dominance and hierarchy. However, the story of evolution tells us that cooperation has been the driving force behind the emergence of more complex and enduring entities. From the evolution of eukaryotic cells from prokaryotes to the development of multicellular animals from single cells, and the growth of human culture through the collaboration of humans, domesticated animals, and crops, mutualism has allowed us to scale.

Human intelligence is not confined to human beings alone. It encompasses a vast array of plant and animal species, microbes, and even technologies. The cows and cacao plants, the rice and wheat, and the ships, trucks, and railroads that have facilitated our explosive population growth are all integral to our collective intelligence. To disregard the existence and contribution of these companion species and technologies is to overlook the fact that we are not merely disembodied brains in vats.

AI models can possess significant intelligence, just like human brains, but they are not competitors in a race for dominance. Instead, they are tools that can assist us in achieving alignment between the user and the AI assistance. The key issues that arise in human-AI teaming are centered around this alignment. How can we ensure that AI systems understand and fulfill our needs and goals? How can we bridge the gap between human intent and machine execution? These are questions that require careful consideration and collaboration.

In conclusion, our attitudes towards AI are reflections of our perceptions of human intelligence. To truly embrace the potential of AI and navigate the challenges it presents, we must recognize the collective nature of intelligence and the interdependence that exists among all living beings. Here are three actionable pieces of advice to guide us in this journey:

  1. Embrace a holistic understanding of intelligence: Recognize that intelligence is not limited to human beings alone. It encompasses a diverse range of entities, both organic and technological. Embrace the interconnectedness and interdependence that exists among them.

  2. Foster cooperation and mutualism: Instead of viewing AI as a threat, focus on how it can augment human capabilities and enable collaboration. Foster a culture of cooperation and mutualism, both within human teams and in human-AI partnerships.

  3. Prioritize alignment between human and AI: To ensure effective human-AI teaming, prioritize alignment between the user and the AI system. Invest in research and development to bridge the gap between human intent and machine execution, enabling AI systems to better understand and fulfill our needs and goals.

By adopting these principles and taking proactive steps towards a more inclusive and cooperative approach to AI, we can harness its potential for the betterment of humanity. Let us embrace the broader definition of "human" and work together, with both organic and technological intelligences, to shape a future that benefits us all.

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