AI Cannot Think for Us, But It Can Work for Us
The Symbiotic Relationship Between Humans and AI
When we say AI thinks “like a human,” we really mean that it thinks “similar to a human.” There are many key differences between our biological neural networks, and artificial neural networks.
In our last article, we discussed the similarities in neural networks which are modeled after human brains and how that benefits our data training and labeling needs. However, we did not talk about what makes this technology different from how we work.
AI Is an Imitation
Artificial intelligence may never think in the same way humans do, as AI is not “thinking” at all. There are inherent differences between human intelligence and machine-learned intelligence that will prevent this, such as the inability to think uniquely, or past what the system has been taught to do.
In fact, a top researcher of Artificial Intelligence wants people to stop referring to AI as “Machine Learning” in general. Michael I. Jordan, a professor at the University of California, Berkeley, asserts that most AI systems are nowhere near the capabilities of humans, as they are simply showing the most basic levels of pattern recognition skills.
That being said, these differences do not inhibit the technology. While the terms artificial intelligence and machine learning can be a bit overused, AI can certainly be very intelligent and has the capacity to learn. Although there are some processes that AI cannot do better than humans, there are also processes where technology will beat us every time; and these things are improving at a rapid rate.
AI Is an Extension of Its Creator
A U.S. federal judge recently ruled that AI cannot be classified as an inventor on a patent. Rather, the creator or owner of the AI is listed as the inventor. After all, the owner of the AI was the one tweaking algorithm, overseeing the data labeling and training.
The purpose of AI in the present and future is not to replicate human intelligence or replace the role of humans. The purpose of artificial intelligence is to create a self-teaching system that enhances the capabilities of humans.
The Future of AI?
So, humans and AI will always be distinguishable from one another. (Sorry Bladerunner fans.) But we’re still curious. What does the future of AI look like?
AI is already used to create self-driving vehicles, analyze vast quantities of data, diagnose and treat illnesses, enhance customer retail experiences, and much more.
Many experts predict that these uses will be expanded and improved upon, so much so that AI will be able to overcome the obstacles created by the biological limitations of humans. For example, AI could conduct long-range space expeditions to colonize other entities within our solar system without risking human lives, or even fight climate change using atmospheric drones. In fact, Microsoft has already begun using artificial intelligence to fight climate change through their “AI for Earth” program.
Artificial intelligence also has huge potential in future workplaces. AI could be used as a decision-making tool for companies, helping improve customer service systems and support management positions. To learn more about how technology like RPA and AI are already improving the workforce, read our blog The Factory Metaphor.
Again, AI will work alongside human workers, assisting us where we fall short, but never taking over completely. In the future, we see a world where humans and Artificial Intelligence evolve together and AI has a metaphorical hand in most aspects of life. But unique decision-making and problem-solving will always set us apart from our robot counterparts.
If you are interested in implementing technology like AI, RPA, or ML into your workflow, contact us. Together, we can improve the way we work alongside artificial intelligence and drive the future of this technology.
