The term “Artificial Intelligence” (herein referred to as AI) is all the rage in discussions across disciplines, business sectors, nations, etc. Many of us think of AI in terms of the 1984 movie The Terminator. A military computer network becomes self aware and perceives humans as a threat requiring extinction. Perhaps the key concept that made the movie compelling was the idea of a machine acquiring self awareness (sentience).
Sentience may be the boogeyman that most of us fear when considering AI but the issue is more mundane. We need to consider the definition of the term's words: Artificial and Intelligence.
Artificial is an easy one: A man-made imitation of something not occurring naturally.
Intelligence is where this issue gets confusing. Are we discussing intelligence or intellect?
Intellect is the ability to process external data or stimuli and produce a logical conclusion. Computers are very adept at handling these scenarios (automation, calculation and synthesis).
Intelligence requires the ability to make abstract connections between seemingly disparate ideas to create new discoveries, inventions, paintings, symphonies, mathematical theorems, etc. This is unique to the human species.
Perhaps when we discuss AI the term should stand for “Artificial Intellect”. The ability to coordinate a city’s traffic pattern, track millions of taxpayers, monitor the supply grid are all examples of the need for “Artificial Intellect”. These may be complex operations but they are redundant and well defined making them ideal for computerized control.
“Human Intelligence” has given us countless wonders that are beyond the realm of machine to create because there is no roadmap to follow. Think Mona Lisa, Theory of Relativity, Beethoven’s 5th and myriad other creations when considering the mind of man/woman versus the straight jacketed modern computer’s abilities. Sure the machine can perform programmed tasks far faster than a human but only a human could connect the mathematical and physics concepts required to make the modern computer.
AI is a tool for mankind, not a replacement of the species.
This is Part 1 of a 3 part series addressing AI. The second part will address current concerns and benefits of AI while the 3rd part will be specifically about AI issues related to Florida. Stay tuned!
COSA promotes independent and analytical thought. AI is a complex discussion but one that can be addressed by civil discourse between the citizenry, industry and government. Open a dialogue with your local and state officials to discuss concerns you may have regarding the inevitable expansion of artificial “intellect”. Since this is new territory for all of us please be clear, reasonable, and always respectful.
