#68: The AI Evolution: Role Bots, Ethics,the Future of Work......and AGI

Artificial intelligence is not just a tool—it’s becoming an integral part of how businesses and societies operate. In a recent conversation with Kevin Benedict on FOB TV: The Future of Business, we explored the rapid advancements in generative AI, its ethical dilemmas, and the shifting nature of work. From AI-assisted research to fully autonomous enterprises, the landscape is evolving in ways that challenge long-standing assumptions about business, labor, and even human identity.

Exciting News! Watch My Latest Interview on FOB TV

I always enjoy my conversations with Kevin Benedict , and this marks my third time being interviewed by him in as many years! Every discussion is a deep dive into AI’s evolving role in business and society, and this one is no exception.

In this latest episode, we cover:

• The explosion of generative AI and its implications for businesses and individuals.
• The rise of Role Bots—autonomous AI assistants reshaping the workforce.
• Ethical challenges, AI governance, and the economic impact of AI-driven automation.
• Thought-provoking questions about AI consciousness and the future of decision-making.

The discussion is packed with insights that will challenge your thinking and spark new ideas. If you’re curious about where AI is headed and how it will shape our future, you won’t want to miss this!

?? Watch the full interview here:

Three Lenses to View AI’s Progress

The AI revolution can be analyzed through three distinct lenses:

1. Short-Term Disruptions: AI updates are now daily occurrences. New releases from Google’s Gemini and OpenAI’s ChatGPT redefine the AI race almost in real time. Organizations are scrambling to integrate these tools into their workflows to stay competitive.
2. Medium-Term Transformations: As AI capabilities mature, they embed themselves into processes and applications. This will reshape the workforce, redefine job roles, and accelerate innovation in ways we are just beginning to understand.
3. Long-Term Speculations: Where does AI ultimately lead us? Could AI develop consciousness? Will we move beyond silicon-based computing to something radically different, such as biocomputing using neural tissue? The frontier of AI research is brimming with these existential questions.

Role Bots: The Next Evolution of AI Assistants/ AI Agents?

One of the most exciting prospects in AI is the emergence of Role Bots—AI-powered entities designed to perform specific functions autonomously.

Unlike today’s AI agents that handle fragmented tasks, Role Bots would encapsulate multiple AI capabilities to function like a human worker in digital or physical environments.

Imagine a researcher Role Bot that gathers information, verifies sources, and generates reports independently. Or a resume-writer Role Bot that applies AI best practices to optimize job applications. These AI-driven entities could compete for gig economy work, effectively reshaping employment as we know it.

Ethical Dilemmas and AI’s Moral Compass

As AI assumes greater responsibilities, a pressing question emerges: what ethical framework should guide its decisions? If AI is making hiring choices, approving loans, or even assisting in medical diagnoses, who ensures its fairness and accountability?

Should AI be programmed with culturally specific moral guidelines, or should we aim for a universal ethical standard?

Similar dilemmas arise when AI enters collaborative environments. The transition from AI assistant to AI coworker changes our perception of machines.

If AI is a coworker, does it deserve workplace rights? What level of autonomy should it have?

These are questions that businesses, governments, and ethicists must address in the coming years.

AI’s Economic and Societal Impact

The rise of AI-driven workforces raises concerns about job displacement. If AI takes over knowledge-based roles,

how do we ensure that displaced workers still have a means of economic survival?

Should AI-generated value be taxed to support universal basic income?

And if AI is trained using the intellectual output of human society, should content creators and professionals receive compensation for their data contributions?

Another profound concern is AI’s potential monopolization by a handful of companies. As Kevin Benedict pointed out,

if AI development is controlled by a select few entities—OpenAI, Google, Meta, Alibaba—does that place excessive power in the hands of a few decision-makers?

Would AI policies become nationalistic, furthering geopolitical divides?

The Need for Conscious AI Governance

Technology is advancing at a pace that outstrips regulatory frameworks. Governments worldwide struggle to implement policies that balance innovation with control. Unlike past industrial revolutions that unfolded over decades, AI’s rapid evolution leaves little time for measured responses. This underscores the importance of proactive, globally coordinated AI governance.

Conclusion: What Future Do We Want?

AI’s trajectory isn’t predetermined; it’s shaped by the decisions we make today. Do we want an AI-driven economy where most services are automated and human interaction becomes a luxury? Should AI be a collaborative partner enhancing human potential, or should it remain a subservient tool?

We don’t have all the answers, but we must start asking the right questions. As AI reshapes business, ethics, and society, we need conscious decision-making to steer it toward a future that benefits all of humanity.

My earlier appearances on FoB TV with Kevin Benedict:

2024

2023

?? Exciting Announcement: Exploring the Future of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) ??

I'm thrilled to share my latest research from the Gartner Futures Lab (coauthored with Frank Buytendijk, Dave Aron, Philip Walsh, PhD, Christian Stephan, Pieter den Hamer, Marty Resnick, Lizzy Foo Kune, Daryl Plummer, Erick Brethenoux Soyeb Barot ) where we delve into the intriguing world of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI).

While AGI doesn't exist today, it certainly sparks strong emotions and diverse opinions. Some see it as inevitable, while others remain skeptical. So, will AGI ever become a reality?

??In this research, we explore five provocative perspectives on the future of AGI:

Our goal at Gartner is to provide a comprehensive overview of these perspectives, helping you form your own position and navigate the ongoing debate. Most importantly, we propose an elegant way out: focusing on what AI should do — solving complex, dynamic "wicked" problems like climate change and social polarization.

Link for Gartner clients: https://www.gartner.com/doc/6198155

Also the link to my insightful conversation with Marty and Phillip on the same topic: Gartner Futures Lab Podcast: Artificial General Intelligence and Artificial Consciousness (Accessible for all)

Signing Off

Why did the Role Bot apply for a human job?

Because it heard the benefits included coffee breaks… and it wanted to finally experience what “slacking off” feels like! ???

Keep an eye on our upcoming editions for in-depth discussions on specific AI trends, expert insights, and answers to your most pressing AI questions!

Stay connected for more updates and insights in the dynamic world of AI.

For any feedback or topics you'd like us to cover, feel free to contact me via LinkedIn.

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p.s. - The newsletter includes smart prompt based LLM generated content. The views and opinions expressed in the newsletter are my personal views and opinions