CFC Blog #118: My Little Rant on A.I.

Julie's piece reminds me of how fun and compelling it can be to be around people who have a natural inclination towards truly thinking about what a single word means and how it may be defined and redefined over time, provoking me to do the same. Looking at a term in a new light from a diverse perspective always helps me to broaden my outlook and dig deeper. And I find it so cool how Julie alludes to her knowledge of the Chinese language to ponder over the meaning of English words, yet still is very open to varying interpretations to reach a more keen and profound clarity for herself. Thanks Julie! 

- Amanda

My Little Rant on A.I. 

I was talking to my investment banker friend the other day exchanging note-worthy industry trends. He enthusiastically noted artificial intelligence being a fascinating vertical with great potential. I rolled my eyes and launched into my diatribe of how technology is far from achieving “intelligence”. I explained the Chinese word for intelligence is the combined mastery of language, music and martial arts. Machines are far from achieving that. 

He agreed but suggested the value of A.I. to business and society currently isn’t to beat human intellect but to prevent human stupidity. The optimization opportunity here could really make a positive impact.  So this change in the intention altered my perspective. I may not be sold on the category name of “artificial intelligence” but I certainly am convinced we could use more “artificial prevent stupid”. So let's see what this new wave of technology advancement can give to the world.