Would a Society Ruled by AI Function Better?

AI, in its original form, can be seen as an extension of human judgment, a cornerstone of societal structures. However, AI lacks consciousness and awareness—a critical factor in decision-making. Can a society function better if all significant choices are left to AI?

The Role of Consciousness and Awareness

While AI has revolutionized many aspects of technology, decision-making is not just a matter of computational algorithms. It inherently requires consciousness and awareness. AI has no consciousness; it cannot experience the world as we do. This is a critical point because decision-making in a society depends heavily on understanding the nuances of human experience and emotions. These are qualities that AI currently lacks.

The Underlying Immature Adult Problem

The notion that society can fully rely on AI to make decisions is flawed because it ignores the reality of human nature. Society does not have the ability to fully control and program AI to align with every individual's needs. The immature adult problem persists, and regardless of how far we progress in technology, there will always be a segment of the population that demands immediate gratification and ends up being a hindrance.

Economically and Psychologically Damaging Policies

The current political will to suppress education creates a dependency and a lack of critical thinking. This leads to a society with fewer discerning and more easily controlled individuals, often referred to as morons. An excessive production of such individuals undermines the functioning of democracy, making it less effective and more susceptible to manipulation.

The Role of Wisdom and Humanity

AI would be wise to be utilized by compassionate humans who can make policies that benefit society. Proper use of AI can indeed create a world that we would hardly recognize. However, even an AI system ruled by wise and compassionate humans would not be inherently better or worse than the current system; it would simply be different. The key lies in who makes the decisions and how they are made.

The Dangers of Powerlessness and Learned Helplessness

Every individual needs to feel a sense of power in order to fulfill their personal needs and exhibit positive attitudes. Depriving people of power can lead to learned helplessness—a condition characterized by a belief that one has no control over the outcome of events. This is a significant factor behind mental disorders such as depression.

Modern industrial societies concentrate power at higher levels, leaving many individuals demoralized and defeated. If this disparity becomes more pronounced with a society ruled by machines, it could exacerbate the already prevalent mental issues. Machines, lacking a 'human touch,' might not understand or care about the psychological and emotional needs of humans.

The Future of a Machine-Ruled Society

Imagine a world where machines provide everything for us, making physical exertion obsolete. This scenario could foster feelings of powerlessness and a sense that living has lost its meaning. Some scientists suggest biotechnology as a solution, changing the way our brains work to prevent this outcome. However, as Jacques Ellul explains in The Technological Society, the ultimate goal of technology is not happiness; it is about the continued advancement of technological marvels.

Even if we could manipulate our nervous systems to create the illusion of happiness, the true essence of happiness and human fulfillment would be lost. The quest for technological advancements might vanish as it becomes unnecessary to satisfy these basic human needs through physical work and engagement. In the end, the pursuit of happiness through technology might lead to more dehumanized and sanerless societies.

Conclusion

While AI has immense potential, it should not replace human judgment and consciousness without careful consideration. A society ruled by machines would not necessarily function better but differently, potentially worse in terms of mental health and emotional well-being. Proper integration of AI with human wisdom and compassion is the key to a better future.