I’m becoming very afraid about people that don’t realize the implications of AI. (And the its just a tool argument)

Understanding the Implications of Artificial Intelligence: A Call for Awareness and Action

As AI technology rapidly advances, concerns about our collective future grow more pressing. While many emphasize AI as a mere tool, there is a crucial need to understand its broader implications on society, employment, and our way of life.

My Perspective on AI and Robotics

First, let me clarify that I am not opposed to AI. In fact, I strongly believe that automation and robotics should handle the majority of jobs currently performed by humans. Our goal should be to free humanity from menial, often hazardous work, allowing us to focus on pursuits that bring joy, creativity, and fulfillment. Human life is largely about enjoying experiences, caring for our planet, and nurturing each other.

The Reality of AI’s Capabilities

However, misconceptions about AI persist. For instance, I recently discussed with a colleague who uses AI daily to develop small-scale applications—tasks he previously couldn’t accomplish alone. During our conversation, he shared a much-criticized analogy regarding AI, which I found to be quite misguided.

I pointed out that many significant challenges in AI, such as hallucinations and complex inference capabilities, have been effectively addressed in enterprise-level applications. Large organizations are now deploying AI tools confidently in production environments. Despite some ongoing issues, the trajectory is clear: AI is becoming a reliable and integral component of business operations.

Furthermore, I highlighted a concerning statistic: approximately 60% of Generation Z graduates struggle to find jobs post-college, partly because of AI-driven automation and global workforce dynamics where workers are often paid very low wages.

The Urgency of Staying Informed

My acquaintance is aware that I keep up with AI research and industry developments. We’ve discussed the rapid pace of its evolution, and he’s admitted that his current capabilities would not have been possible without AI just a year ago. Still, his comment was dismissive, likening me to someone who merely reads about bears but doesn’t interact with them—implying I should “get out there” and find ways to profit from AI.

The Societal Impact of AI

Even if AI remains a tool, its effect on employment will be profound. The majority of white-collar roles are at risk of becoming obsolete due to automation. As jobs diminish, workers may shift toward trades, which could become overcrowded, leading to lower wages and increased competition.

Projections suggest unemployment could rise to 12% within the next year alone—a figure