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

The Growing Concerns Over AI’s Societal Impact: A Call for Awareness and Action

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become an integral part of our technological landscape, yet many remain unaware of its profound implications for the future. While some perceive AI merely as a useful tool, there is a rising concern about the broader consequences of its rapid integration into various sectors.

A Progressive Perspective on AI Usage

It’s important to clarify that not everyone who advocates for AI is dismissive of its challenges. On the contrary, many believe in harnessing AI and robotics to revolutionize the workforce—eliminating menial and hazardous jobs and allowing humans the freedom to pursue passions, creativity, or leisure. In this view, human life should be dedicated to living meaningfully, caring for our planet, and nurturing each other.

Misconceptions and Misplaced Analogies

Recently, a conversation highlighted some common misunderstandings about AI’s capabilities. A user involved in daily AI-driven coding projects shared an analogy about AI that was, frankly, quite unhelpful. I pointed out that significant hurdles—like hallucinations and complex inference capabilities—have been largely addressed enough for enterprise deployment. While no technology is perfect, major corporations confidently utilize large language models (LLMs) and AI tools for real-world applications.

However, I also noted a harsh reality: approximately 60% of Generation Z workers struggle to find employment after graduation, partly due to AI automation and the global trend of underpaid labor. Despite my extensive knowledge of AI’s advancements, this individual suggested I was akin to someone interested in bears who only reads about them but never observes them firsthand—implying I should ‘get out’ and find ways to profit from AI instead of just studying it.

The Looming Economic Shifts

Even if AI remains a tool, its potential to displace vast segments of the workforce, especially white-collar jobs, is undeniable. As AI becomes more capable, many traditional roles are at risk of becoming obsolete. The labor market is expected to become saturated with workers competing for fewer positions, which could drive wages down and unemployment rates soaring—potentially reaching 12% or higher within the next year or two.

It’s crucial to recognize that official unemployment figures often exclude those who are underemployed or have never held jobs, meaning the true economic distress may be even more severe.

The Bigger Picture and Urgent Need for Awareness

Despite these warnings, headlines often focus on short-term profit opportunities, neglecting the