AI vs. The Wisdom Economy

We’re all trying to figure out how Artificial Intelligence is going to change our lives, and nobody seems to know exactly how this powerful new technology will evolve. We’re in unknown territory here, and it’s a bit nerve racking.

How will AI be helpful vs. harmful in the long run? The pundits are predicting everything from “it’s just a better analytical tool for repetitive tasks” to “nobody will have a job or a way to earn money to live because we won’t need employees any longer.”

Sure, all agree that AI makes analytical tasks much easier for business leaders, but how will it affect the most important lagging indicator in our lives—our happiness?

I believe there will always be a demand for what I call The Wisdom Economy. We humans are “pack” animals that are biologically wired to form close relationships with others of our kind. It has insured our survival for eons, and from the research in Positive Psychology, it is one of the four major sources of happiness in life.

I see a big difference between the facts that AI provides, and the wisdom required to live a successful and happy life. I think the biggest part of that difference is emotional intelligence. It’s akin to those leaders we all know who are highly analytical and factual but aren’t enjoying the full amount of financial success and happiness available. They don’t understand what motivates the people in their team and how to get their best contribution to the goals of the business.

I think there will always be a demand for leaders and workers who understand human behavior and know how to build win-win relationships. While AI can mimic this understanding, it’s hard for me to imagine this technology ever fully replacing the need for human connection. What do you think?

Don’t be a stranger. (770) 993-1129. tdockery@TheResolveFirm.com