Why I Refuse to Use AI: The Human Cost of Artificial Intelligence

A recent conference in London explored the implications of AI, highlighting concerns about its impact on human relationships, education, and society. Several speakers, referencing the importance of human intelligence as a divine gift, argued against the use of AI. Concerns ranged from inaccuracies in AI-generated content to the replacement of genuine companionship with artificial interactions. The central message emphasized the need for human connection and the dangers of prioritizing convenience over authenticity.

It was a typical rainy Sunday when I tuned into a conference held at Farm Street Church, also known as the Catholic Church of the Immaculate Conception in London. The event was aptly titled, “AI, Faith and Ethics at a Crossroads: Discerning the Way Forward.” From the start, presenters like Jen Copestake, the Rev. Michael Baggot, and Matthew Harvey Sanders made it clear why I steer clear of AI, and why I think others should, too.

The frequent defense I often hear is quite simple: “But AI is in the programs I already use!” From social media platforms to marketing tools and even emails. Look, I get it. But honestly, that’s not a valid justification for embracing something that could disrupt our very essence as humans. At the conference, speakers referenced Pope Francis’s insights on how human intelligence reflects being made in God’s image, emphasizing that no computer can replace that intrinsic value.

And I can’t help but think—if you consider some of AI’s recent achievements, it feels like an old adage rings true: “garbage in, garbage out.” My own experiences with AI-transcribed Zoom meetings have opened my eyes. Those programs often can’t even catch simple terms. When “Laudato Si’” comes out as “loud otto see” and “cenobitic” turns into “systematic,” it’s alarming. Just watch any video with AI-generated captions, and you’ll see discrepancies popping up left and right.

What’s even more troubling is how some college professors push students to use AI in their academic work. I mean, the very purpose of education is to spark creativity, to encourage independent thought. Relying on AI feels like a step backward. Moreover, during the conference, there was a serious discussion about AI and robotics potentially replacing humans so fully that replicas could look absolutely real.

Even worrisome is the idea that AI could serve as companionship for the lonely elderly. So here’s my question: With so many people in the world, why are we so disconnected that we can’t just be there for each other? What has happened to our priorities? Spiraling out of control, the replacement of jobs by AI leaves many facing poverty, while genuine human interaction is sidelined entirely.

This is all bundled under the guise of progress. But really, are we ready to let AI dictate the reality we live in? If we trust these digitized narratives blindly, what’s next for our society? As a creative thinker, I can find no substantial benefits to AI apart from making some people’s lives a bit more convenient. It’s an invitation to rely on technology to do the heavy lifting, rather than embracing our own abilities to create and connect.

If we continue as we have, we’ll risk becoming subjects of AI, altogether reliant on it to navigate our lives. Our core values—love and respect—may drift further away. It’s vital to recognize where we’ve strayed from fostering genuine connections with one another, caring for our planet, and finding joy in communal engagement. We must prioritize human relationships over the allure of convenience through AI, focusing on what truly enriches our lives: the authenticity of human connection.

In summary, the reliance on artificial intelligence raises serious concerns about the human cost of convenience. From the integrity of education to the quality of human relationships, the potential risks of embracing AI surpass its benefits. The conversation sparked at the Farm Street Church conference sheds light on the pressing need to reconnect with one another amidst technological advancements. If we lose sight of authentic interactions, we risk becoming less human, trapped in a reality dictated by machines.

Original Source: favs.news