Why Some People Refuse to Use AI and the Impact on Society

The AI Invasion: A Growing Concern Among Some Entrepreneurs and Professionals

As AI continues to make waves in the tech world, a growing number of entrepreneurs and professionals are expressing concerns about its impact on society. In this article, we’ll delve into the thoughts and opinions of several individuals who are resisting the AI invasion, and explore the reasons behind their reluctance to adopt this technology.

The Environmental Impact

One of the primary concerns among those resisting AI is its environmental impact. Sabine Zetteler, the owner of a London-based communications agency, is adamant that the energy consumption required to run AI systems is unsustainable. “I don’t think it will benefit us long-term,” she says. Florence Achery, owner of Yoga Retreats & More, shares similar concerns, citing the energy-intensive nature of data centers as a major reason for her decision to stay away from AI.

The Loss of Human Connection

Another concern is the potential loss of human connection and creativity. Sierra Hansen, who works in public affairs, believes that relying too heavily on AI can stifle our ability to problem-solve and think critically. “Our job as a human is to apply critical thinking skills, and if you are feeding simple tasks into ChatGPT then you’re not solving on your own,” she says.

The Pressure to Adapt

However, not everyone has the luxury of opting out of AI. Jackie Adams, who works in digital marketing, initially resisted AI on environmental and laziness grounds, but eventually had to adapt to the technology to stay competitive in her field. “I started playing with it a bit more after reading job descriptions asking for AI experience,” she says. “I recently realised that if I don’t implement it into my ways of working, I’m going to get left behind.”

The Future of AI

So, what does the future hold for AI? James Brusseau, a philosophy professor specialising in AI ethics, believes that AI will continue to play a significant role in our lives, but that humans will still be needed to make decisions and provide oversight. “If you want to know why a decision is made, we will need humans,” he says.

Actionable Insights

As AI continues to evolve and become more integrated into our daily lives, it’s essential to consider the potential consequences of its widespread adoption. Here are a few actionable insights to keep in mind:

  • Be aware of the environmental impact of AI and consider the energy consumption required to run AI systems.
  • Consider the potential loss of human connection and creativity when relying too heavily on AI.
  • Be prepared to adapt to AI and its increasing presence in the workforce.
  • Consider the potential consequences of relying too heavily on AI and the importance of human oversight.

Conclusion

The AI invasion is a complex and multifaceted issue, with both benefits and drawbacks. While some entrepreneurs and professionals are embracing AI, others are resisting its adoption due to concerns about its environmental impact, loss of human connection, and potential consequences for society. As AI continues to evolve, it’s essential to consider these concerns and think critically about the role it will play in our lives.