AI, Ethics, and the Future: A Personal Odyssey
In my teenage days in the basement of my parent’s home, deeply immersed in programming and hacking, I quickly realised that coding didn't quite ignite my passion. To be honest, it didn't at all. My focus was more on finding flaws and breaking things – and not in the corporate 'motivational' sense that Zuck refers to. However, soon after in my early career, I realised that the little programming I knew turned out to be an impeccable tool for making my life easier, getting the computer to do the things I didn't want to do. (Believe me, as a young consultant, most of the tasks you’re handed, you don’t really want to do. But hey, you're wearing a suit, getting paid, and sometimes, people actually listen to what you have to say.)
But then, the concept of Artificial Intelligence (AI) struck a different chord. It felt like something out of a sci-fi novel was becoming a reality. The computing power was growing exponentially, and the more I learned about how different models worked, the more I got excited that this might actually become something real. It seemed like anything you could dream of could indeed turn into reality. But what would that mean for everything else? No bus or taxi drivers? No cashiers? No surgeons? No contract lawyers?!
As I observed the rapid digital transformation around us, everything started making sense. The application scenarios that I once viewed through the lens of code now appeared as a dynamic canvas painted by technology. It was a revelation; the realization that IT and code, which once felt abstract, are now the very pillars upon which our modern world stands.
My reflections turned to the ongoing global crises – political shifts, the rise of extreme ideologies, and societal challenges that are testing the resilience of our communities. These aren't just headlines; they're real, palpable shifts that question the fabric of our societies. Amidst this turmoil, I've often pondered the role of AI.
How can this technology, once distant and impersonal, become a tool for navigating these complex times? I've seen the first solutions - smart meters managing decentralized electricity networks, chatbots in customer support, and even smart minefields that 'heal' themselves. And by 'healing,' I mean if a human triggers a mine and it explodes, the mines are smart enough to notice the new gap, redistribute, and close it. Oh - my - god.
Yet, AI, in my view, holds a key. It's not just a technological marvel, but a beacon that could guide us through the murky waters of societal upheaval. The potential of AI to analyze, predict, and offer solutions is immense, but it's the human element – the ethical, thoughtful application of this technology – that will steer us through these crises.
The founding of VÆST in 2022 was a pivotal moment in my life, marking not just a career milestone but the realization of a vision. At VÆST, strategy, systemic thinking, and the transformative power of technology converge. VÆST is more than a consultancy; it's a mission to explore how technology, particularly AI, intertwines with human aspects in our companies and societies. It's about fostering a new view on leadership that’s equipped to handle the complexities of our times.
Reflecting on this journey, I often think about its implications for tomorrow's leaders. How will they leverage these technologies and concepts? Will they see AI as merely a tool for profit, or will they embrace its potential to drive societal change? Even though admittedly impressive, AI is more than generating movie-like scenes or letting it research and write your next history essay. The future holds immense possibilities, and the responsibility lies with these emerging leaders to navigate this landscape ethically and effectively.
In my experience, blending the worlds of AI, systemic thinking, and leadership has been a continuous process of learning, adapting, and envisioning. It's a path that mirrors the evolution of our world, where technology is not just an enabler of business processes but a driver of societal progress.
Have you encountered moments where AI provided unexpected solutions to complex problems? Or complex problems from solutions? ;-) Share your stories and get in touch – I’d love to hear about your experiences.
Have a wonderful day!
Marcelo
