AI USEFUL OR NOT?

What is Artificial Intelligence?

Before we jump on to the advantages and disadvantages of Artificial Intelligence, let us understand what is AI in the first place. From a birds eye view, AI provides a computer program the ability to think and learn on its own. It is a simulation of human intelligence (hence, artificial) into machines to do things that we would normally rely on humans. This technological marvel extends beyond mere automation, incorporating a broad spectrum of AI skills - abilities that enable machines to understand, reason, learn, and interact in a human-like manner. There are three main types of AI based on its capabilities - weak AI, strong AI, and super AI.

• Weak AI - Focuses on one task and cannot perform beyond its limitations (common in our daily lives)
• Strong AI - Can understand and learn any intellectual task that a human being can (researchers are striving to reach strong AI)
• Super AI - Surpasses human intelligence and can perform any task better than a human (still a concept)

Advantages of AI:-

1. Reduction in Human Error

One of the biggest benefits of Artificial Intelligence is that it can significantly reduce errors and
increase accuracy and precision. The decisions taken by AI in every step is decided by information previously gathered and a certain set of algorithms. When programmed properly, these errors can be reduced to null. 

Example:

An example of the reduction in human error through AI is the use of robotic surgery systems, which can perform complex procedures with precision and accuracy, reducing the risk of human error and improving patient safety in healthcare.

2. 24x7 Availability

There are many studies that show humans are productive only about 3 to 4 hours in a day. Humans also need breaks and time offs to balance their work life and personal life. But AI can work endlessly without breaks. They think much faster than humans and perform multiple tasks at a time with accurate results. They can even handle tedious repetitive jobs easily with the help of AI algorithms. 

Example:

An example of this is online customer support chatbots, which can provide instant assistance to customers anytime, anywhere. Using AI and natural language processing, chatbots can answer common questions, resolve issues, and escalate complex problems to human agents, ensuring seamless customer service around the clock.

Disadvantages of AI:-

1. No Creativity

A big disadvantage of AI is that it cannot learn to think outside the box. AI is capable of learning over time with pre-fed data and past experiences, but cannot be creative in its
approach. A classic example is the bot Quill who can write Forbes earnings reports. These reports only contain data and facts already provided to the bot. Although it is impressive that a bot can write an article on its own, it lacks the human touch present in other Forbes articles.

2. Make Human Lazy 

AI application automate the majority of tedious and repetitive tasks. Since we do not have to memorize things or solve puzzles to get the job done, we tend to use our brains less and less. This addiction to AI can cause problems to future generations.

Thank You for reading....