Observations and Distinctions
The Need for Symbiosis Between Living and Machine Intelligences
When considering the determinants of truth in the context of a relationship between artificial intelligence (AI) and human intelligence, it is crucial to acknowledge the fundamental differences between disembodied intelligence (machines) and embodied intelligence (humans). (our thanks to Tom Fisher at the University of Minnesota for helping find this important distinction). These distinctions play a significant role in how truth is perceived, processed and applied in various contexts and scenarios.
AI excels in statistically measurable activities and observed or observable events, where the relevance of truth can be near absolute. Keeping in mind that AI models are built on mathematical relationships, they are neither emotional nor intuitive. They are strictly probabilistic. Machines are adept at processing vast amounts of data, identifying patterns and making accurate predictions based on predefined rules and algorithms. In these domains, AI can provide highly reliable and consistent results, as it operates within a framework of data derived objective facts, validated sources and quantifiable information. This makes AI an invaluable tool for tasks such as data analysis, pattern recognition and decision-making in fields like finance, healthcare and scientific research.
However, when it comes to speculation, conceptualization, imagination, belief systems, or discernment, the embodied intelligence of humans takes precedence. These aspects of intelligence are primarily associated with ‘life form’ intelligences and are not easily replicated or simulated by machines. Human intelligence is shaped by subjective experiences, emotions, intuition and the ability to navigate complex social and cultural contexts. Truth, in these domains, becomes more fluid and open to interpretation, as it is influenced by individual perspectives, beliefs and values. While AI can assist in generating ideas or exploring possibilities, it lacks understanding as a dynamic embodied entity and nor does it possess the ability to grasp the multi-dimensional nuances of human experience that are essential for genuine speculation and imagination.
It is important to recognize that there exists a fact-based truth that can be rule-based, but it may not necessarily represent the entire truth. AI can excel at processing and applying these rule-based truths, such as the example of a human using a crosswalk and the associated traffic rules. However, the embodied intelligence of humans understands that the actual truth of the situation is based upon the reliance on drivers obeying those rules. Human intelligence considers the unpredictability of human behavior, the potential for errors in judgment and the need for situational awareness. There are limitations associated with relying solely on rule-based truths and we ignore the importance of integrating human discernment and contextual understanding at our own peril.
In a relationship between AI and human intelligence, the key is to treat both as having distinct agency. Allowing us to leverage the strengths of each form of intelligence, while acknowledging their limitations. AI can provide the foundation of objective facts, statistical analysis and rule-based processing, while human intelligence contributes the contextual understanding, creative thinking and ethical considerations necessary for a comprehensive understanding of truth. By combining the precision and efficiency of AI with the depth and adaptability of human intelligence, we can work towards a more holistic approach to determining truth in various domains.
I call this symbiotic decision intelligence, which has the potential to enhance decision-making, problem-solving and knowledge discovery because it uniquely harnesses the complementary strengths of both forms of intelligence.
And my favorite quote of all time:
“The growing complexity of our times makes certainty about any move or any position much more precarious. And in this networked world, where information moves at the speed of light and ‘truth’ mutates before our eyes, certainty changes and speeds off at equivalent velocity.” – Margaret Wheatley, in the essay “Willing to be Disturbed,” from Kaos Pilot A-Z by Uffe Ubaek (Aarhus, Denmark: Kaos Communication, 2003)
Michael W. Wright is CEO/Founder of Intercepting Horizons, LLC and a Fellow of the Caux Round Table where this article first appeared.