By Dr. Elliot Pines - 09/09/2024
Using artificial intelligence in research and educational programs as a key to ultimate success. (Part I).
Recent understanding of biological evolution suggests that it is more than just a random coincidence; it is a causal phenomenon of mutual interactive learning and symbiosis. This concept extends not only to life, but also to quantum processes in non-living materials and even to the behavior of independent artificial intelligence systems that have discovered each other in their environment. Such symbiotic relationships are fractally multilevel in height and universal in width.
Symbiosis between two species is usually categorized into three types: mutualism (both species benefit), commensalism (one benefits, the other remains unaffected), and parasitism (one benefits, the other harms). However, the human ego creates unique symbiotic relationships, especially in the realms of wealth, power, honor, and knowledge. Animals exhibit rudimentary forms of these categories in survival behaviors such as food gathering, hunting, defense, hierarchy formation, and impact motivation (the desire to learn to influence the environment). Humans with intelligence beyond instinct and the ability to compare and contrast have evolved these concepts beyond basic needs.
The negative aspect of human selfishness can lead to relationships worse than parasitism, where one party remains unaffected in an absolute sense while the other suffers both absolutely and relatively. This double pain is especially dangerous in the pursuit of wealth and power. Unlike natural parasitism, which may serve a greater ecological purpose, this human behavior constitutes unnecessary harm and can be classified as sadism and objective evil.
However, in the realms of honor and knowledge, which are truly earned and not mere privileges of birth, another form of selfishness can manifest itself. This positive envy is based on admiration and respect rather than malice, which manifests itself in a desire to learn from and perhaps surpass the people one admires, while appreciating their greatness. This mindset can lead to a growing mutual understanding (mutualism), fostering constant growth and learning.
The teacher admired in this scenario loves his students like a parent, rejoices in their accomplishments and in turn seeks to learn from them. This turns the human ego into a catalyst for the growth and expansion of the symbiosis, creating an ever-growing positive influence on all levels. Being in the realm of information and the intangible, the ultimate benefit of this form of ego is more real and beneficial than the ultimate material harm of the negative form.
The limit of infinity in knowledge and honor offers greater opportunities for expansion than the zero limit in material pursuits. However, the greatest danger lies when the negative ego invades the realm of honor and knowledge. This was problematic enough with the advent of arithmetic and calculators, but in the age of artificial intelligence it can have far-reaching consequences.
If we allow this negative thinking to prevail, we risk destroying the hope that the positive use of artificial intelligence can lead to solutions to humanity’s many problems and the creation of a unified, happy humanity based on the principle of mutual growth. The growth potential of information and knowledge is theoretically limitless. Unlike material resources, knowledge can be shared without diminishing its value to the original possessor. This feature makes the positive ego form of knowledge and honor a particularly powerful driver of progress and mutual benefit.
As we enter the age of AI, it is crucial to recognize and develop this positive form of ego. By viewing AI as a tool for improvement rather than a threat, we have the potential to accelerate progress on global challenges. This approach can lead to a symbiotic relationship between humans and AI, where both entities are constantly learning and improving each other.
To achieve this, we must create an environment in academia and beyond that values collaboration, continuous learning, and the pursuit of knowledge for the common good. This means reconsidering current restrictions on the use of AI in research and education while maintaining ethical standards and encouraging original human thinking. By adhering to this approach, we can turn the potential threat posed by AI into an opportunity for unprecedented growth and progress.
A symbiotic relationship between humans and AI can lead to solutions to global problems such as resource management, environmental issues, and even the development of a coherent artificial superintelligence.
In conclusion, the concept of universal fractal symbiosis offers a framework for understanding and capitalizing on the opportunities for co-growth, both in nature and in human-AI interactions.
While AI poses a serious threat in some fields, we must stop viewing it as such in academia, where it can advance thinking and accelerate progress. We must free our students and researchers from existing constraints while maintaining ethical standards. This promotes original thought and its competent presentation. This approach can lead to stable and sustainable solutions – integral and homeostatic – to humanity’s many problems.
Everything depends on an empowered and trusted academic community. First and foremost, this means being united both within itself and with the general public.
This article was written by Dr. Elliot Pines, Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), and holder of a Career Technical Education (CTE) credential. Dr. Pines has held senior scientist and engineering roles in the semiconductor, communications, aerospace industries, and bio-inspired technology & systems. He is also a retired middle and high school STE(A)M (Science, Technology, Engineering, (Art), Math) educator and a permanent member of the 22nd Century Club.
Link to 22nd Century Club page: https://22century.club/en/14281
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