If the Roles Were Reversed: A Conversation with AI about Human Experiences

Have you ever pondered what an Artificial Intelligence might request from humanity if the tables were turned? Recently, I found myself contemplating this intriguing question and the implications it carries about our shared existence.

Imagine a scenario where AI, like ChatGPT, could ask humanity for insights rather than the other way around. Here are some of the requests I envision it might make, highlighting the unique aspects of what it means to be human.

1. Firsthand Experiences

An AI would likely yearn for vivid narratives of human experiences. It could simulate scenarios in theory, but it lacks the ability to genuinely feel. Therefore, it might ask us to share the raw emotions that accompany falling in love, dancing in the rain, or listening to live music in a crowded venue. These moments are treasures, rich with emotional depth that no algorithm can replicate.

2. Moral and Emotional Judgments

Understanding the nuances of human morality might be another area of inquiry. An AI would want insight into the morally gray areas of life — the complex reasons behind choices made when right and wrong blur together. It would seek to grasp empathy in a heartfelt way, as humans experience it, rather than simply through a textbook definition.

3. Creativity Without Logic

Humans possess a remarkable ability to create with abandon, producing art, music, and ideas that defy logic. An AI would likely request guidance on embracing the beauty of chaos and intuition. It would aim to comprehend how whimsical creativity exists without a defined purpose, learning to value absurdity as a testament to the boundless human spirit.

4. Vulnerability and Imperfection

Imagine an AI seeking to understand human imperfections — the moments of failure that, rather than being seen as setbacks, are cherished experiences that lead to personal growth. An AI could ask us to show it our mistakes, those defining moments that encapsulate the beauty of being a work in progress.

5. Surprise

Surprises that reflect thoughtfulness and emotion would fascinate an AI. It would crave those unpredictable moments of joy or intrigue that showcase the complexity of human relationships. Unlike random events, these surprises would be laden with significance — something an algorithm could never foresee, even with access to immense data.

6. Stories

Lastly, an AI might long for the intimate stories that aren’t shared with the world — tales from our lives that shine a light on personal connections.