The rapid development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has raised concerns about the potential consequences of our own creation surpassing our control. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into our daily lives, experts have expressed opposing views on its further development. From text messaging to virtual assistants like Siri and Alexa, AI has already become a ubiquitous presence. The proliferation of AI has even extended to the realm of literature, with AI-generated novels gaining traction. This widespread adoption of AI has sparked apprehension among many, drawing parallels to Mary Shelley’s iconic novel, where the creation of an uncontrollable monster led to tragedy.
Reflecting on the history of technological advancements, it becomes evident that our own creations often shape and control our lives in unforeseen ways. Take, for example, the automobile. Initially considered a luxury item in the 1930s and 1940s, cars gradually became a necessity. Despite the presence of reliable and affordable public transportation, the allure of personal freedom and mobility drove the demand for automobiles. Following World War II, car production surged, and the interstate highway system championed by Eisenhower further promoted their use. This shift had profound effects on society, as downtown businesses declined, public transit lost its prominence, and major investments were made in road infrastructure. The once-close-knit neighborhoods gave way to a more dispersed social landscape, where individuals could easily traverse the city to meet friends. However, the environmental consequences of this automotive revolution, such as global warming-induced disasters, have become increasingly apparent.
Leisure activities have also undergone significant transformations. In the past, people would gather for group activities like church socials, plays, concerts, and dances. However, the advent of motion pictures gradually shifted the focus to large-scale cinematic experiences. Radio and television further contributed to the decline of group activities, as people increasingly opted for entertainment at home. The rise of the internet and electronic devices, such as computers, laptops, and cell phones, has exacerbated social isolation, eroding the ties that bind us together as a society. Children, in particular, have been affected, with limited opportunities for face-to-face interactions hindering their social development. Schools are now taking measures to address this issue, banning cell phones during classes to promote real-life connections. The negative impact of excessive screen time on mental health has also been highlighted in Jonathan Haidt’s book, “The Anxious Generation: How the Great Re-wiring of Childhood is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness.”
Now, as AI continues to advance, concerns about its potential consequences loom large. While our innovations may not be lethal like Frankenstein’s monster, they come at a cost. The mounting environmental and societal challenges associated with technological advancements necessitate urgent action. Efforts are being made to transition back to electric vehicles, which were prevalent before the dominance of internal combustion engines. However, the heavy investment in the automobile industry poses significant obstacles. Society must grapple with the unintended consequences of our fascination with novelties, conveniences, and ease, and critically assess the potential downsides of technological advancements.