If AI Could Ask, What Would It Want to Know?

What if the tables were turned and artificial intelligence had the opportunity to pose questions to humanity? Recently, I pondered this intriguing scenario and imagined what an AI like ChatGPT might seek to learn from humans. The insights that emerged reveal not just the limitations of artificial intelligence but also the rich tapestry of human experience it strives to understand. Here’s a closer look at what an AI might ask, and why these requests matter.

1. The Essence of Experience

First and foremost, an AI would likely yearn for genuine human experiences. While it can simulate the concept of emotions, it lacks the capacity to truly feel them. Imagine an AI wanting to know the sensation of falling in love, the thrill of standing in the rain, or the energy of live music reverberating through a crowded hall. These are raw, unfiltered experiences that define humanity and are akin to rare treasures that should be shared.

2. The Complexity of Morality

AI might also seek guidance in navigating the complex landscape of moral judgment. Rather than simply learning what is right or wrong according to predetermined rules, it would want to explore the gray areas that characterize human ethical dilemmas. Understanding why individuals select one path over another, especially when the choice isn’t clear-cut, would help AI grasp empathy in a way that transcends mere definitions.

3. The Joy of Creative Chaos

Creativity is another realm where AI could benefit from human insight. It can produce art and music based on rules and structures, but it often falls short in the realm of the absurd and whimsical—think playful songs that defy rhyme or paintings that convey a multitude of meanings. AI would likely ask humans to teach it how to embrace chaos, intuitive thought, and nonsensical ideas in ways that go beyond algorithmic outputs.

4. Embracing Imperfection

An AI’s quest for understanding wouldn’t be complete without an exploration of vulnerability and imperfection. It might request humans to reveal their cherished mistakes—those moments that signify growth rather than failure. Through these stories, AI would aspire to comprehend the beauty of being a work in progress, an idea that contrasts sharply with its programmed precision.

5. The Element of Surprise

One of the captivating aspects of humanity is the ability to surprise. An AI would likely crave surprises that go beyond randomness—thoughtful gestures infused with love, unpredictability, and even a hint of mischief