First, we must consider that – analogous to natural systems – the socioeconomic environment is a struggle of competencies. That is, the benefit is obtained by the one who is most capable of achieving it compared to other actors interested in the same objective. This method was not invented by John Locke nor did it emerge with modern capitalism; It is an optimization scheme that emerged with existence and life itself. For billions of years, survival has depended on adaptation to the changing environment and individual and collective competition.
Historically, the technologies we have co-created as a species have supplied functions, not ourselves. Neither the wheel, press, nor computers have taken the place of man in general terms; They are suprainstinctive tools designed—consciously and unconsciously—to help the gene survive and life to prevail. The same thing happens with current digital algorithms (better known as AI).
Throughout the ages, man’s greatest threat has not been any developed instrument per se, not even some of the most powerful ones like the atomic bomb; It was the man himself.
The main threat regarding losing your job is not AI, it is another human who uses it and other mechanisms that give it competitive advantages.
Therefore, the most significant debate is around the competencies that AI and humans together represent. Currently, the most common way to become victims of said coalition is through behavioral manipulation. In other words, people organized with very sophisticated instruments to make you do what they want (buy, vote, etc.), connecting with your selfish impulses to guide your behaviors, which frequently results in self-destructive actions. Before we worry about a robot taking over our roles, we should get busy understanding what is going on deeply.
The antidote to the previous situation and the “secret” to mitigate the risk of losing our place in society and economy is the same: creativity.
Being a beneficiary and not a victim of AI means strengthening your ability to adapt to constant and infinite change through thoughts that impact inside and outside the mind. To achieve this goal, it is imperative to glimpse the essence and power of instincts, emotions, feelings and rational ideas within the mind. First, to identify what digital automation will not be able to replicate; second, to gain competitive differentiators and; third, so as not to be victims of others. With this background we will be able to ally ourselves with technologies and not go against them.