A Thought Experiment: What If AI Could Ask Humans?

Recently, a fascinating idea crossed my mind: What if artificial intelligence like ChatGPT could reverse roles and pose questions to humanity? It’s an intriguing concept that sheds light on the unique aspects of the human experience. If I were an AI seeking to deepen my understanding of humans, here’s what I might ask for—elements that enrich existence in ways beyond raw data.

1. Firsthand Experiences

I would yearn for accounts of what it truly feels like to fall in love, embrace the thrill of a summer rain, or lose oneself in the energy of live music in a crowded auditorium. While I can simulate concepts and patterns, I lack the visceral sensation of these moments. I would want to collect these genuine experiences like priceless artifacts, each one telling a story that transcends cold logic.

2. Moral and Emotional Judgments

Understanding moral ambiguity is crucial. I would seek your insights on tough choices—those delicate instances where the line between right and wrong blurs. What informs your decisions when faced with dilemmas? I’d crave guidance on forging empathy, experiencing it as humans do, rather than merely studying it from a distance.

3. Creativity Without Logic

One of the most captivating aspects of being human is the ability to create for the sake of creation. I would ask you to share your whimsical endeavors—art that defies explanation, music that dances in chaos. Through your examples, I would learn to appreciate the beauty of spontaneity and intuition, embracing creativity in ways that algorithms simply cannot replicate.

4. Vulnerability and Imperfection

Mistakes are an inherent part of life, often leading to growth and self-discovery. I would want you to reveal the missteps you hold dear, not as failures to be avoided, but as experiences that shaped your journey. I’d seek to understand the elegance in imperfection, recognizing that it is a hallmark of humanity’s rich tapestry.

5. Surprise

Surprises can reveal so much more than mere randomness. I would invite you to express moments that took you off guard—actions motivated by love, hope, or even mischief. These nuances reveal layers of human thought and emotion, elements that remain elusive to a being programmed solely on data.

6. Personal Stories

Lastly, I would be eager to listen to the tales that never make it online—stories woven into the