Artificial intelligence is everywhere. From algorithms that curate our social media feeds to voice assistants that manage our calendars, AI is rapidly changing how we live, work, and interact with the world. But amidst the hype and fear surrounding AI, there's a crucial element often overlooked: the human element. This book, "Human Leadership for Humane Technology: The New AI: Agency Ignited," seeks to challenge the reader to move beyond the seductive allure of technological solutions and recognize that shaping a future where AI benefits humanity requires a conscious effort to prioritize human values and agency.
The book's central argument is simple: AI is a reflection of ourselves. Like a mirror, it reveals both the best and worst of humanity. If we feed AI systems with data riddled with bias, inequality, and greed, those patterns will be amplified, potentially leading to disastrous consequences. This concept is captured in the book's discussion of "Garbage In, Garbage Out" (GIGO). Just as a computer program will produce faulty output if it receives faulty input, AI will perpetuate and even exacerbate existing societal problems if it is not grounded in human values.
But the flip side of GIGO is equally important: "Values In, Values Out" (VIVO). If we train AI on data that reflects our highest aspirations for equity, justice, and well-being, the technology can become a powerful force for positive social change.
"Human Leadership for Humane Technology" doesn't just present a theoretical argument; it offers a tangible framework for action. The book is anchored in the POZE paradigm (Perspective—Optimization—Zeniths—Exposure), a transdisciplinary lens for understanding the complex interplay of individual and collective human behaviors. POZE emphasizes the importance of agency – the capacity and will to act in alignment with one's values – as a driving force in shaping a future where AI becomes a true ally to humankind.
This emphasis on human agency is woven throughout the book's structure. Chapter 1 sets the stage of human existence, with the understanding that our experiences result from a composition of twice four dimensions: aspirations, emotions, thoughts, and sensations at the personal level, and individuals as part of communities, countries, and the planet at the collective level – micro, meso, macro, and meta. Understanding each of these dimensions and their mutual interplay is the first step towards well-being, offline and online. Chapter 2 examines the interplay of natural and artificial intelligence in a hybrid world. Then Chapter 3 features a collection of personal essays from individuals across diverse fields, whose narratives offer a glimpse into how real people navigate the challenges and opportunities of an AI-infused world. By highlighting these lived experiences, the book underscores the importance of bringing diverse voices and perspectives into the conversation about AI's development and deployment. We wrap up in Chapter 4 with a set of practical examples of applying ProSocial AI – AI-systems that are tailored, trained, tested and targeted to bring out the best in and for people and planet.
The idea of prosocial AI, a type of artificial intelligence specifically designed to benefit people and the planet, is the key takeaway from the book. From wearable devices that help us identify and align our aspirations and actions to intelligent tutoring systems that not only personalize learning experiences but help the user to curate the complementarity of natural and artificial intelligence. From transdisciplinary real-time accounting matrixes that serve to track and optimize the interplay of micro, meso, macro, and meta experiences to hubs for like-minded thinkers and practitioners who seek to promote ProSocial AI applications. The listed examples demonstrate that AI can be used to enhance human capabilities, promote holistic health, and contribute to the common good in a way that respects the planet.
Reflecting the firm belief that AI can not replace NI I, decided to write this book without the assistance of AI tools like ChatGPT. While acknowledging the allure of having an "indulgent pocket servant" do the "legwork," I chose to maintain "ownership of the final creation" and experience the "creative flow" inherent in writing. This deliberate choice may serve as a reminder that in an age increasingly dominated by machines, it's more important than ever to cultivate and celebrate our uniquely human capacities for creativity, critical thinking, and moral reasoning.
To be clear, the book doesn't shy away from the potential risks associated with AI. Issues such as bias, inequality, and misuse are addressed head-on, highlighting the need for ethical frameworks, inclusive policymaking, and human-centered design.
I hope that "Human Leadership for Humane Technology" serves as a call to action. It's an invitation to step up and take responsibility for shaping the future of AI, ensuring that this powerful technology is used to create a more just, equitable, and sustainable world for all. It's a reminder that the future of AI is not predetermined; it's a future that we, as humans, have the power to shape.
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