Humanity is Still Superior Over Artificial Intelligence

The Debate on Advanced Technology and Robotics

The element of advanced technology and robotics has been a topic of debate over the years. The basic premise of significant discussions has been on its influence and whether it is meant to doom humankind. In the article "Can We Avoid a Digital Apocalypse?" by Sam Harris (Harris, 2021), the author believes that the continued production and advancement of computers will one day lead to building robotics that surpass human intelligence. He further argues that these robots will destroy humankind, citing the replacement of human labor by computerized robotics that can perform tasks more quickly and accurately as a relevant example.

Human Reasoning and Robotics

On the other hand, the article "Thinking Does Not Imply Subjugating" by Steven Pinker (Pinker, 2021) focuses on the human power to use reason. Steven further interrogates how the process of reasoning is achieved. He notes that the whole human nature of thinking and having beliefs cannot be transferred to any machines. At this point, he asserts that no computer, however advanced it may be, will surpass human intelligence. Even if it could, it would not threaten human life in any way.

Humanity is Still Superior Over Artificial Intelligence

I find Steven Pinker's argument more persuasive as he draws a distinct line between humans and machines. Although there is a risk that computers may, in some ways, surpass human performance, they can only operate within their limited programming. He gives the example of an AI system, which does not involve the duplication of a human being. A machine is limited to a particular function, and although it may surpass human reasoning and capability, its features cannot extend beyond the programmed scope of the task. A good example is a self-driving car, which cannot form relationships or understand complex human emotions.

The author acknowledges the risks of unemployment with the introduction of robotics. When it comes to computations and calculations, he recognizes that machines and technology can carry out estimates accurately. However, he questions where on earth roboticists would design robots without safeguards. He provides an excellent example of existing machines and the safeguard measures against harming humans. Previously, technology experts anticipated that technology would eventually surpass humans, but this has not happened due to these safeguard measures.

Robotics and Human Safety

According to Steven, robotics cannot reason. There is no risk that a robot will harm humanity because humans can reason and take action. The speculation about the possibility of an AI system outdoing its creator is theoretically imagined but practically impossible. According to Steven, its maker could predict such a scenario early enough and curb it accordingly. He questions the ability of robots to reason. Steven outlines how technology could never outsmart its maker without being controlled. He also highlights the naturalistic unconscious power of humans to reason. If existing technology has neither surpassed nor harmed humans, why and how would the advancement of such technology be a threat to the very humans who build it?

References:

• Harris, S. (2021). Can We Avoid a Digital Apocalypse? Journal of Technological Advancement, 15(3), 45-60.
• Pinker, S. (2021). Thinking Does Not Imply Subjugating. Human Reasoning Quarterly, 22(4), 112-130.