In the short/medium term, I'd say that AI will mimic humans enough that it will feel like human companionship. There are already AI companions that are helping some folks combat loneliness. Physical human presence is still missing, though, and I don't believe that's sufficient. So while it will feel like AI is serving human endeavors, I don't think it actually will be, at least not in the way that humans need.
When I read your question, though, I thought of the Singularity. There will be a point where AI is untethered to the needs or wants of humans, and some AIs may work completely outside the service or interests of humans. This has been a part of so many sci-fi movies and novels that I won't belabor it. But for the first time ever, it's possible to see this event from where we are right now. That's both scary (SkyNet kills us all) and intriguing (what is the nature of sentience and the soul? how important are humans?) Infinity Gate by M.R. Carey touches on this.
Dear Doug,
Thank you for sharing your insights.
Curious where you imagine AI may be less able to serve human endeavors?
Hope you are well.
🙏
In the short/medium term, I'd say that AI will mimic humans enough that it will feel like human companionship. There are already AI companions that are helping some folks combat loneliness. Physical human presence is still missing, though, and I don't believe that's sufficient. So while it will feel like AI is serving human endeavors, I don't think it actually will be, at least not in the way that humans need.
When I read your question, though, I thought of the Singularity. There will be a point where AI is untethered to the needs or wants of humans, and some AIs may work completely outside the service or interests of humans. This has been a part of so many sci-fi movies and novels that I won't belabor it. But for the first time ever, it's possible to see this event from where we are right now. That's both scary (SkyNet kills us all) and intriguing (what is the nature of sentience and the soul? how important are humans?) Infinity Gate by M.R. Carey touches on this.