At its core, AI technology is designed to take on the more mundane and repetitive tasks that humans are unable to do efficiently or accurately: process large amounts of data, make decisions based on predetermined rules, and complete tasks with precision.
However, while AI may be able to take on many of the more mechanistic tasks that humans currently handle, it is important to remember that humans will still be responsible for the higher-level thinking. Computers cannot empathize, innovate, or understand the emotional nuances of speech and body language in a way that would modify their own behavior. They cannot compete with the comedians or mystics…these areas of the human experience are curtailed for them.
Human beings will always be needed to strategize, plan, make decisions, and provide creative solutions. Our ability to think abstractly and creatively, as well as our lived experiences and firsthand knowledge of the world, is invaluable when it comes to navigating the treacherous paths of life.
More pragmatically, humans will be needed to manage any AI technology that is implemented in the workplace. We’ll need to monitor its performance, troubleshoot issues, and ensure that it isn’t being used dangerously. We’ll also need to be able to explain how it works and why certain decisions were made by the AI system — something that’s beginning to scape our grasp due to the technology’s inherent processes.