AI Apocalypse

As AI rapidly advances and integrates into our work and learning environments, much of the conversation has focused on apocalyptic scenarios involving artificial general intelligence (AGI). However, the real threats and opportunities lie in the immediate impact AI is already having on jobs and organizations.

The AI Age is Already Here

While concerns about AGI are important to consider, we are already living in the early days of the AI Age. Recent studies have shown that AI can significantly boost productivity and work quality, with time savings of over 30%. AI's impressive capabilities, such as GPT-4's near-perfect test scores, are driving widespread adoption among students and workers, even if it's kept secret.

"An early controlled study in September 2023 showed large-scale improvements at work tasks, as a result of using AI, with time savings of more than 30% and a higher quality output for those using AI."

The jobs most exposed to AI are held by educated, highly paid workers in creative roles, putting pressure on organizations to take a stand on this transformative technology. Major tech companies like Microsoft and Google are already integrating AI into their ubiquitous office applications.

The Choice is Ours

While the knee-jerk reaction might be to cut jobs and save money, this approach is short-sighted. Companies that figure out how to leverage their newly productive workforce can dominate those that simply maintain pre-AI output with fewer people. Committing to the existing workforce fosters a partnership where employees are willing to teach others about AI, rather than hiding it out of fear.

"Companies that commit to maintaining their workforce will likely have employees as partners, who are happy to teach others about the uses of AI at work, rather than scared workers who hide AI for fear of being replaced."

The way companies use AI-driven efficiency gains is a critical choice. Early studies hint at a path forward, showing that workers enjoy using AI because it eliminates tedious tasks, leaving them with more interesting, high-value work. However, this outcome is not guaranteed, so leaders must actively decide how to reorganize work around AI in a way that benefits their human employees.

Shaping the AI Future

Rather than fixating on a single AI apocalypse, we must address the many potential catastrophes that AI can bring if used unimaginatively or maliciously, such as surveillance, layoffs, and leaving students behind. However, AI can also create local victories by making work more productive and empowering, helping struggling students find new paths forward, and driving growth and innovation.

"Rather than just being worried about one giant AI apocalypse, we need to worry about the many small catastrophes that AI can bring. Unimaginative or stressed leaders may decide to use these new tools for surveillance and for layoffs. Educators may decide to use AI in ways that leave some students behind."

The decisions about how AI is used are not limited to a small group of people; many individuals within organizations will shape what AI means for their teams, customers, students, and environment. To make these choices matter, serious discussions need to start now. We cannot remain passive and let decisions be made for us in a rapidly advancing world.

Conclusion

The AI Age is upon us, and while apocalyptic scenarios dominate the conversation, the real challenges and opportunities lie in the immediate impact of AI on work and learning. Organizations must proactively decide how to use AI to empower their workforce, drive innovation, and create positive outcomes. By engaging in serious discussions and taking an active role in shaping the AI future, we can avoid the many potential pitfalls and unlock the transformative potential of this technology.

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"We’re Focusing on the Wrong Kind of AI Apocalypse"

[this newsletter is produced with the help of Claude]