Inevitable AI developments

Three of the most impactful inevitable trends shaping the future are cognifying, tracking, and questioning.

Cognifying refers to making previously "dumb" objects and processes smarter through technology like AI. As more objects and systems become cognified, they will be able to operate with less human input and oversight. While this could lead to greater efficiency, it also raises concerns around transparency and control. How can we ensure cognified systems act ethically if we don't fully understand how they make decisions?

Tracking is also increasing rapidly with new technologies. While customized services and experiences can benefit individuals, invasive tracking threatens privacy. There is a difficult balance between utilizing data to improve lives versus respecting personal boundaries. The onus should be on companies and governments to collect only essential data and be fully transparent about how it is used.

Finally, questioning has become ubiquitous due to the overwhelming amount of contradictory information online. While healthy skepticism is positive, pervasive questioning of facts and expertise threatens to undermine institutions and spread misinformation. We must find ways to separate truth from fiction through critical thinking and responsible gatekeeping.

Overall, we must thoughtfully guide these technological changes to create an equitable and enlightened future society. With care, AI and related advances can enhance our lives without dehumanizing us in the process. As outlined in Kevin Kelly's book The Inevitable, these trends will shape the future whether we want them to or not, so it is up to us to direct them wisely.