Can we measure Human and AI collaborative intelligence? How do we do that?

Measuring Human and AI Collaborative Intelligence: Introducing the Human Enhancement Quotient (HEQ)

In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the way we work, learn, and think, a compelling question arises: Can we quantify the extent to which humans and AI collaborate to enhance cognitive abilities? As AI integration accelerates across industries, establishing a standardized measure of this synergy becomes not only intriguing but essential.

The Evolution of Human-AI Collaboration

Decades ago, chess legend Garry Kasparov envisioned the future of strategic play as a partnership between human intuition and machine computation. His concept of “centaur chess” illustrated that a combination of human ingenuity and AI processing could outperform both human grandmasters and supercomputers alone. This idea underscored a fundamental truth: Human intelligence is not fixed; it can be amplified through the right tools and processes.

Fast forward to 2025, and the narrative has only grown richer. Industry leaders and thinkers increasingly emphasize AI’s role as an intelligence enhancer. Nic Carter likens rejecting AI to deducting significant IQ points from oneself, while Mo Gawdat suggests that AI collaboration is akin to borrowing hundreds or even thousands of IQ points. Others, like Jack Sarfatti, claim that with advanced AI partners, their effective intelligence can reach unprecedented levels.

These bold claims reflect a shared belief: working with AI isn’t just a productivity booster; it represents a transformative leap in human capability.

Recognizing the Need to Measure AI-Driven Cognitive Enhancement

This evolving mindset prompted a personal reflection. During a recent interaction with ChatGPT, I asked the model to assess my intelligence based on our conversations. To my surprise, it placed me in the 130-145 IQ range—a result not as remarkable for the number itself but for the fact that such an evaluation was even possible. This interaction illuminated a vital point: if AI can analyze and reflect on human cognition, perhaps we can also develop tools to measure how AI collaboration amplifies our intelligence.

This realization propelled me to consider a broader, more urgent question: How can organizations assess whether their AI training and integration efforts genuinely enhance human cognitive performance?

The Economic and Ethical Implications of AI-Enhanced Workforce

Recent corporate shifts highlight this urgency. Microsoft announced layoffs of thousands, citing their strategic AI investments as a motivator. Similarly, Accenture has committed to reskilling over half a million employees on AI, yet explicitly stated that those unable to adapt would face