Why Skepticism Surrounds AI: An Evolutionary Perspective on Tech Fears and Naysaying

The question of why so many people hold a skeptical stance towards the abilities of AI is a multifaceted one. This skepticism often extends beyond just technology enthusiasts; there are individuals who believe AI might not become a significant part of our lives for another 50 to 100 years. However, it is more realistic to consider that advancements could occur within a timeframe of 5, 10, or even 20 years. Such skepticism is deeply rooted in our evolutionary history and current psychological tendencies. Let us delve into the reasons why these fears persist and how we can embrace the coming changes more positively.

Understanding Human Actions Through the Human Brain

To understand why people fear and doubt the potential of AI, we must first explore the intricacies of human actions and the human brain. The human brain, particularly its cognitive and emotional processes, plays a significant role in shaping our reactions to technological advancements. One method to achieve this understanding is through diving into the origins and evolution of the human brain.

In evolutionary times, novelty was more often seen as a risk than an opportunity. As a developing species, we encountered numerous challenges and learned to manage certain aspects of our environment. However, when something new and unfamiliar came along, our survival mechanisms prompted us to fear and avoid it. This evolutionary bias, which served us well in the past, continues to influence our modern behavior and thinking patterns.

The Impact of AI on Social Order and Relationships

AI stands to challenge the social order, job markets, and the way we form and maintain relationships. While it may be easier to be frightened of something novel than to understand and work with it, this fear is often the predominant emotional response. Thus, many people prefer to act as "naysayers," expressing doubt and resistance.

Example: The MAGA Movement

To better understand these tendencies, let us look at the example of the MAGA (Make America Great Again) movement. This group wants to revert to a simpler, more familiar way of life, which includes jobs, societal structures, and relationships that they are comfortable with. The fear of complexity and the unfamiliar is an underlying reason for their preference to retreat into what they believe is a more secure and understood reality.

Historical Context and Technological Advancement

It is important to remember that many predictions about the future are often exaggerated or over-stated. This highlights the validity of the argument that "tried and true" methods should not be discarded too quickly. Less than 200 years ago, the vast majority of the American population worked on farms. This highlights how labor-intensive and manual work was once the norm, and the shift towards intellectual work is relatively recent on a historical scale. As a species, we are not yet fully adapted to the rapid pace of technological change, yet it continues to evolve at an increasing rate.

AI was already around during the 1980s, showing that it is not a new phenomenon. Instead, it has become a prominent topic due to strategic decisions by those controlling the media. By diverting attention away from other pressing issues, they can ensure that the public focuses on the positive applications of AI while downplaying the potential dangers. Technology has historically developed at an accelerating pace, so we can anticipate significant issues in the next five years regarding the use of AI.

Conclusion

As we continue to navigate the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, it is essential to address and challenge our fears. Embracing technological advancements with a balanced perspective that acknowledges both the potential benefits and the risks is crucial. By understanding the evolutionary roots of our fears and the rapid pace of technological change, we can better prepare ourselves and future generations to adapt and thrive in this new era.

**Keywords: AI skepticism, human evolution, technological evolution, naysaying, AI future, fears of change