Growing Seeds and Becoming a Leader: Between Earth and AI

A well-known podcast recently interviewed the "Godfather of AI", a Nobel Prize winner. The interview highlighted the idea that AI is likely to replace many jobs, and learning a trade like plumbing could be an option for those seeking careers that are unlikely to be automated by AI. Although there is still a chance that we can figure it out, it is evident that urgent action is necessary due to the rapid progress. The interview video garnered more than 8 million views, and viewer discussions are ongoing with over 24,000 comments.

A decade ago, as I imagine people contemplating the threat of the era of AI, I started creating content to deliver the message of harmony between humanity, technology, and nature. Today, opinion leaders in the industry warn that fully autonomous AI with zero human involvement may arrive sooner than expected. Many people, however, tend to be concerned about this challenge instead of actively seeking solutions. For people who ask about the ethical issues, some professionals might respond that taking responsibility for the outcomes of using AI is key, but this advice still sounds ambiguous. Perhaps clear definitions of ethical AI use are necessary through international agreements or regulations. However, this is also arguable due to the intense global competition in the industry.

In these uncertain times, it is more beneficial than ever for us to embrace simple lifestyles by connecting with nature. Mother Nature is the one who provides water to cool down data facilities and bountiful food resources for our children and communities. We can have a sense of ownership in caring for nature by engaging in even small activities, such as planting apple seeds in pots at home. The small seeds will show us the vitality of nature as they germinate and grow unexpectedly. While getting quick information or psychological advice from an AI chatbot can be helpful and motivating, being surrounded by nature and creating something with our own hands makes us feel much more empowered and energized. 

Learning foreign languages is another way to stay empowered in our daily lives. There are online resources available for learning various languages, and their platforms often provide opportunities to communicate with other learners from around the world. Engaging in conversations between real people is more effective for broadening perspectives than practicing language with an AI chatbot, in terms of the ultimate goal of learning language, which is human interaction. For travelers, using newly acquired language skills in person, with eye contact, offers a more meaningful experience than relying on machine translation while staring at a mobile phone. 

When it comes to leadership in this transitional time, no CEO of any AI or tech company has perfect solutions for the challenges. They may continue to focus on development and competition. Hopefully, in a few decades, our future generation will be able to lead with the stability of technological advances. For now, we can take the lead in raising and educating children in our communities. When children face the era of eradicating poverty and disease, and exploring space and other planets, they will be the successors who value our nature and humanity.

Are you spending your time growing plants or taking your children into nature this summer? If so, you are already a leader who spreads joy in harmony with the Earth and shapes a better future!