HUMANITY’S AI TRAJECTORY

Sanjeewaka Kulathunga says AI-human symbiotic relationships are possible

As humanity looks ahead to the 22nd century, AI is set to become an integral part of daily life by transforming the way people work, innovate and interact. It has already surpassed human capabilities in areas such as computation, pattern recognition and automation.

However, its true potential lies in forming a symbiotic relationship with humans by enhancing their cognitive abilities rather than replacing them.

AI-human collaboration has evolved from simple rules based systems to advanced self-learning models that can assist in decision making and creative problem solving. And by the next century, it is expected to reach a level of artificial general intelligence (AGI), which possesses cognitive abilities equal to or surpassing those of humans.

This evolution will likely result in a synergistic partnership where AI enhances human intellect, creativity and productivity.

It will play a critical role in augmenting human intelligence rather than rendering men and women workers obsolete, and amplify problem solving abilities that will make complex challenges more manageable.

This approach aligns with the concept of intelligence augmentation (IA), which focusses on using technology to extend human problem solving capabilities.

Studies show that AI assisted tools can boost human innovation by providing new perspectives and reducing cognitive strain. In literature, music and the visual arts, AI is already collaborating with humans to create unique works.

By the 22nd century, it will likely function as a creative partner by co-authoring books, composing symphonies and generating complex visual art.

Concerns about AI induced job displacements are widespread but it will not eliminate employment opportunities. Instead, it will redefine job roles and shift the focus towards areas requiring human judgement, emotional intelligence and ethical reasoning.

Artificial intelligence will allow humans to concentrate on higher order thinking, strategic planning and interpersonal collaboration.

Future workplaces will prioritise adaptability, ethical reasoning and interdisciplinary skills to ensure that human workers remain essential. AI will also play a key role in lifelong learning by offering personalised education that’s tailored to individual needs.

By analysing learning patterns, AI driven platforms will make re-skilling and upskilling seamless to ensure continuous human development.

As artificial intelligence becomes an indispensable collaborator, ethical considerations will be crucial. AI driven decisions will impact critical areas such as healthcare, law enforcement, and governance, and necessitate transparency and accountability.

To prevent biases in AI systems, advanced governance frameworks will be required to ensure fairness, transparency and ethical decision making. Institutions may establish artificial intelligence ethics councils to oversee AI’s integration into society and ensure that it aligns with human interests.

The legal and moral status of AI will also be a major topic of discussion.

If it achieves human like intelligence, questions may arise about whether it should have rights. Future policies will need to define the responsibilities and limits of AI within human civilisation, and maintain it as a tool rather than granting it legal personhood.

This collaboration will drive groundbreaking advancements in scientific research and medicine. Artificial intelligence is already contributing to drug development, genetic analysis and disease detection through medical imaging.

By the next century, it is expected to assist in curing previously incurable diseases, enhance human longevity and even integrate with biological systems.

In the realm of human enhancement, AI may merge with biotechnology and lead to innovations such as brain-computer interfaces and AI assisted prosthetics. These advancements will enable people to expand their cognitive and physical capabilities, and usher in a new era of human evolution.

Artificial intelligence will also be a crucial partner in space exploration. The current reliance on AI driven robotics is only the beginning of a long-term collaboration between humans and intelligent machines in exploring the universe.

It could also influence human relationships and social structures. Emotionally intelligent AI companions and virtual assistants may offer personalised support and companionship.

Additionally, AI might assist in conflict resolution, mediation and communication. Real-time language translation and emotion recognition technologies could enhance interpersonal communication by fostering greater understanding among diverse populations.

The future of this symbiotic relationship will define the next era of civilisation and lead to advancements beyond our present imagination.

AI-human collaboration has evolved