We Are All Creators: Exploring our Relationship with AI

Whether we realize it or not, we are all creators of AI and that matters if we want to design a future that is inclusive, equitable, and structured so everyone can truly thrive.

Ahead of a talk I recently delivered, Business Beyond the Brain: AI, Consciousness, and the Future of Leadership, I asked all participants to define their current relationship with artificial intelligence as either Creators, Users, or Observers.

Given the profile of person interested in a talk of this nature, most participants self-defined as either Creators or Users.

In the talk, I posited that whether we realize it or not, we are all creators of AI, shaping its future and, consequently, the future of humanity with our presence or absence. This assertion wasn't just a philosophical musing but a call to action, urging us to recognize our collective responsibility in steering AI towards a future that is inclusive, equitable, and ripe with conditions that ensure everyone can thrive.

The Creators

Creators are typically seen as the architects of AI, directly involved in its development, building, and training. This group is on the frontline, coding algorithms, designing neural networks, and deciding which problems AI should solve. At first glance, it seems straightforward to attribute the creation of AI solely to this group. However, this perspective is limiting. It overlooks the broader ecosystem of influences that shape AI development, including societal needs, ethical considerations, and the data that fuels AI models. Creators are not working in isolation; they are influenced by the demands and feedback of users, the regulatory environments shaped by observers, and the societal context that all of us contribute to. Thus, while Creators are direct builders of AI, they are also part of a larger tapestry of creation that includes us all.

The Users

Users, who engage with AI tools in their work or personal lives, might not consider themselves as creators. Yet, their interaction with AI is a form of co-creation. By choosing which AI tools to use, providing feedback, and sharing data, Users are shaping the direction of AI development. Their behaviors, preferences, and demands influence what AI creators prioritize and refine. Furthermore, the data generated by Users—every click, query, and interaction—serves as the raw material that trains AI, making it smarter and more attuned to human needs. In this way, Users are not just passive recipients of AI technology but active participants in its evolution.

The Observers

Observers might seem the furthest removed from the creation process, watching from the sidelines. However, their role is more influential than it appears. Crucially, when Observers, particularly individuals who are from traditionally underrepresented communities, don’t participate in using or don’t have the opportunity to use AI, their unique and diverse perspectives are left out of the conversation. This lack of presence means that AI may evolve without considering the full spectrum of human experience and wisdom, potentially leading to a future that does not fully account for all voices and needs. Thus, engagement—or the lack thereof—by Observers has a profound impact on the inclusivity and direction of AI development.

?The Collective Creation of AI

The idea that we are all creators of AI, regardless of our direct involvement, underscores the collective nature of technological advancement. Our interactions, decisions, and even our inactions, play a role in shaping AI. This realization brings with it a responsibility to engage thoughtfully, to ensure everyone, everywhere has access to AI's tools and technologies, and that we consider not just the immediate benefits but the long-term implications of our choices.

As we stand at the crossroads of AI and humanity’s collective future, it's crucial to recognize that our relationship with technology is not static or one-dimensional. We are all part of a dynamic ecosystem, influencing and being influenced by AI. By embracing our role as creators, we can contribute to the development of AI that not only advances technological frontiers but also upholds our shared values and aspirations for a future where everyone can thrive.