Myths About AI

June, 2024

Paulo Araújo Santos, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Science For Investors Association

History is repeating itself. Just as the brave Portuguese navigators once faced and conquered the mythical monsters of the seas, we now stand at the precipice of a new era filled with its own legends and fears. Today, we grapple with three pervasive myths about Artificial Intelligence: the myth that AI will surpass human intelligence, the myth that AI is a monster for education, and the myth that AI will create widespread unemployment.

Throughout history, the legends of sea monsters have captivated the imaginations of sailors and land-dwellers alike. From the frigid waters of the North of Europe to the ancient shores of Greece, tales of terrifying creatures lurking beneath the waves were common. These myths spoke of colossal serpents, monstrous krakens, and fearsome leviathans, each said to guard the mysterious and uncharted territories of the world's oceans.

Despite these frightening legends, the brave Portuguese navigators of the Age of Discovery faced the oceans with unparalleled courage and vision, allowing the Kingdom of Portugal to become the first global empire, spreading knowledge across all continents throughout a vast number of territories that today form part of 53 different countries. Unfazed by the fearsome myths and the threat of monstrous encounters, these intrepid explorers embarked on voyages that would reshape the world. Figures like Pedro Álvares Cabral who discovered Brasil, among many others, dared to venture into the unknown, navigating uncharted waters with a steadfast belief in the greater purpose of their journeys. The Portuguese navigators saw the oceans not as barriers filled with terrors, but as vast highways connecting continents and cultures. Their bravery and foresight allowed them to transcend the fears and myths that had long held others back. By harnessing their navigational skills and the power of the sea, they forged new routes and established connections that would pave the way for a more interconnected world. These explorers understood that beyond the legends of monsters and the perils of the deep lay opportunities for discovery, trade, and the exchange of knowledge. Their legacy is a testament to the human spirit's capacity to overcome fear and embrace the unknown in pursuit of a greater vision. Through their voyages, the Portuguese navigators opened the doors to new horizons, demonstrating that the oceans, once feared as the domain of mythical beasts, could indeed unite humanity across the globe.

Just as in the past, it is the courageous visionaries who see beyond these fears that will lead us forward. They understand that AI, rather than being a threat, offers incredible opportunities for innovation and progress. These pioneers see AI as a tool to enhance human capabilities, revolutionize education, and create new industries and job opportunities. By embracing AI's potential, these brave individuals are leading a revolution that promises to transform our world for the better. They are the modern navigators, charting a course through the unknown, and demonstrating that AI is not a monster to be feared, but a powerful ally in the pursuit of human advancement. Just as history has shown us, those who look beyond the myths and embrace the potential of new frontiers will drive the greatest changes for humanity.

Throughout history, every major technological revolution, such as electricity, computers, and the internet, has been preceded by widespread fear, myths, and pessimism. When electricity was first introduced, people feared it was dangerous and could lead to various health issues or even death. The advent of computers brought about concerns that machines would take over jobs and render human skills obsolete. Similarly, the internet faced skepticism, with many believing it would be a passing fad or that it could only be used for nefarious purposes. Despite these fears and negative thoughts, each of these revolutions has dramatically transformed our world for the better. Electricity has powered countless innovations and improved living standards globally. Computers have revolutionized every industry, increasing productivity and enabling new forms of communication and entertainment. The internet has connected the world, democratized information, and created new opportunities for learning, commerce, and social interaction. These examples show that while fear and pessimism often accompany major technological advances, the potential for positive change and progress is immense. By embracing innovation and addressing the challenges that come with it, we can harness these technologies to create a better future for everyone.