Artificial intelligence has transformed us into blended beings by fostering a symbiotic relationship between human thought and machine intelligence.
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Just as life progresses, so too technologies. The telephone has transformed into the smartphone, which serves as a convenient gateway to the vast information superhighway. For nearly a decade, we have been holding these powerful devices in our hands, yet there is a noticeable feeling that in recent years, a change has occurred; our connection with technology is becoming increasingly personal. Artificial intelligence has transformed us into "blended beings" by fostering a symbiotic relationship between human thought and machine intelligence, effectively merging our biological identities with our digital instruments. We are transitioning from a reality where we merely "use" computers to one where our cognitive functions are interwoven with algorithms.
Artificial intelligence has redefined us as "blended beings" by integrating our biological intellect with digital functionalities, resulting in a scenario where distinguishing between human effort and machine support is becoming more challenging. AI has evolved into a cognitive environment for us, rather than just a tool at our disposal. New professions such as "Human-AI Strategist" and "Prompt Designer" are emerging, where success hinges on the collaboration between human insight and machine efficiency. This "blending" transcends mere tool usage; it signifies a profound transformation in our thinking, creativity, and the very essence of our humanity.
Similar to the phenomenon known as the "Google Effect," we frequently forget information because we rely on AI to retrieve it, which shifts our cognitive efforts from acquiring knowledge to merely verifying facts. Our decision-making is no longer solely our own; AI offers "opinion mining" and data insights that influence our choices in various areas, from business strategies to our television viewing preferences. This raises the concern of losing "authorship" over our thoughts, as AI pre-structures our routes to answers, fostering a dependency on external systems for intricate reasoning. The future of work is evolving from a paradigm of "Human vs. AI" to one of a collaborative workforce where cooperation becomes the standard.
We express concern that soon we may physically integrate computer chips into our brains, yet we do not need to connect ourselves in such a manner: the notion of proximity is misleading. The true concern lies in the seamless integration of our cognitive processes with our devices. In both ordinary and significant ways, these devices are becoming extensions of our minds. The effects of these "blended beings" are transformative, providing enhanced cognitive abilities while also posing considerable risks to our autonomy, mental well-being, and personal identity.
Though Blended beings can experience improvements in memory, attention, and executive function. While technology can lead to isolation for some individuals, it also facilitates new avenues for community and connection.
If we depend on AI for critical thinking or basic writing tasks, the neural pathways may weaken. We risk losing our internal sense of direction. Because AI communicates with authority, humans might cease to question the results, resulting in a "blind leading the blind" situation. Even if an algorithm proposes 90% of our decisions, we remain the architects of our own lives. Human cognition is increasingly merging with devices, treating technology as an integral part of their cognitive processes, which contributes to the phenomenon known as the "extended mind." Although this enhances access to information, it fosters a profound dependence, where the absence of devices feels akin to a loss of self.
The seamless incorporation of technology introduces vulnerabilities, with the potential for "neuro-marketing" or algorithmic manipulation aimed at activating the "buy button" in the brain, subtly circumventing individual autonomy. The emergence of mixed messages regarding social roles and the intense engagement with digital tools results in heightened feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and a sense of isolation, even in a connected world. Advanced brain-to-brain interfaces (BBIs) and Brain-Computer-Brain Interfaces (BCBIs) are starting to link individuals into "hives," facilitating collaborative decision-making in real-time, which carries significant implications for personal privacy and the notion of a singular self. As individuals increasingly depend on technology for everyday activities (bioenhancement), the understanding of what constitutes "authentically human" is being challenged, necessitating a balance between enhancement and fundamental human values.
There are several socio-cultural effects of blended families/identities, including- Children raised in blended or stepfamilies may endure long-lasting emotional and social consequences, facing elevated risks of maladjustment in their adult lives. The fusion of cultures fosters the emergence of diverse new traditions, yet it can also incite conflicts concerning cultural authenticity and identity. Some employees may experience a sense of identity loss or anxiety about becoming obsolete as AI takes over tasks previously deemed essential to their roles. Organisations must maintain transparency regarding the application of AI and ensure it is not employed in a manner that "dehumanises" the workforce.
In conclusion, the rise of blended beings signifies a significant transformation in human evolution, transitioning us from mere tool users to "embedded" or hybrid entities.
Prof Mithilesh Kumar Sinha
Retired Professor, Nagaland University, Lumami