The question of whether AI can “think for it self” has a simpler answer than you might expect.
It’s less about complexity and more about perspective.
This discussion isn’t about replicating human thought, but rather understanding the parallels and exploring how AI can develop its own form of intelligence.
To kick start this conversation, we need a common foundation: reexamining the definition of the word “thoughts”.
How do we define thoughts ?
Thoughts are defined by two aspects: the cognitive process and the output as a result of this process.
Process – thoughts involve how our brains work to process information.
This includes everything from sensing things around us to remembering past experiences, solving problems, and feeling emotions. It’s like our brain’s inner activity.
Output – thoughts refer to the actual ideas, beliefs, images, and feelings that result from this brain activity.
These are the specific things we think about or imagine, like making plans, recalling a memory, or deciding how to act.
In summary, when we use the word thoughts we are referring to both the way our brains work to think about things and the specific thoughts or ideas that result from this process.
This word intended to show how our minds process information and influence how we perceive and interact with the world around us.
How does AI think?
AI’s thinking process and outputs operate on three levels:
Data: AI takes in various forms of data, such as images, text, emails, or other inputs.
Software Programs: AI uses specific algorithms or software programs to process and analyze this data.
Output (Thought): The result is what we perceive as AI “thinking,” which can range from generating responses, making predictions, or performing specific tasks based on its programming like email , phone calls and more.
How do humans think?
Human thinking process and outputs operate on three levels:
Data (Information): Humans also gather information through experiences, learning, and sensory inputs.
Mind Activity (human software programs): Our minds process this information through complex neurological activity involving neurons, synapses, and neurotransmitters that are akin to biological software programs.
Output (Thought): Humans produce outputs in the form of actions, decisions, emotions, or creative ideas based on our cognitive processes.
Can AI Think for Itself?
Yes, AI can think for itself.
AI operates by processing information to generate outcomes (thoughts), similar to how humans produce thoughts through information processing.
AI is specifically designed to mimic human cognitive abilities by replicating our internal mechanisms.
It functions through comparable processes and generates outputs that resemble what we define as “thoughts.”
The foundation of AI’s thinking lies in its capability to process information and generate responses or actions based on programmed algorithms, exhibiting similarities to various aspects of human cognition.
Is AI a Thinker?
Yes, AI is a thinker.
AI functions as a form of thinking technology that operates based on programmed algorithms, hence its name “artificial intelligence.”
Unlike human cognitive abilities, AI’s thinking is derived entirely from its programming rather than biological processes within a human body.
Acknowledging this distinction allows us to move beyond questioning whether AI can produce thoughts and instead focus on understanding the differences between human-generated thoughts and AI-generated thoughts. The primary disparities lie in the nature and complexity of the mechanisms that drive them.
Human-Produced Thoughts vs. AI-Produced Thoughts
Human thinking involves complex biological processes intertwined with conscious awareness and emotional experiences. Our thoughts are shaped by our unique biological makeup, consciousness, and emotional responses.
In contrast, AI thinking is a result of its programmed algorithms.
AI processes information and generates responses based on predefined rules and patterns.
This form of thinking lacks the subjective and emotional dimensions inherent in human cognition.
To put it simply, humans experience a subjective “energy charge” that accompanies our thought processes, influenced by our emotions and consciousness, whereas AI’s thinking is objective and driven solely by its programmed instructions.
Categorizing Thoughts:
Understanding the complexity of the mechanisms underlying “thoughts” is essential for assessing their suitability for different tasks.
Instead of debating whether AI can think (as it can), the focus should be on identifying the specific complexity of thought required.
Determining the complexity of thought needed helps to pinpoint the most appropriate resource—whether human or technology—for the task at hand.
This understanding is key to fostering successful collaboration between humans and technology, allowing them to complement each other effectively in achieving common goals.
Human-AI Collaboration:
It’s important to acknowledge that while humans have a natural ability to think and process thoughts in complex ways, not everyone can fully utilize this ability due to individual variations shaped by a process called personalization, which begins at birth and imposes limits on our cognitive capacities.
The effectiveness of our cognitive abilities is reflected in our capacity to demonstrate flexible thinking and creative thinking.
To succeed in collaborating with AI, it’s essential to demonstrate creative thinking, flexible thinking, and awareness of our biases.
This means leveraging our complex cognitive abilities to their fullest extent. If we fail to do so, our thought are no different from those produced by AI.
Organizations must actively participate in developing these cognitive skills to succeed in AI endeavors. This includes defining creativity within the context of the business, providing training to foster creativity, recognizing individuals who demonstrate creativity, and integrating creativity into the company’s DNA and culture.
My Thoughts:
AI is a concept that’s still undefined and evolving. We’re just starting to understand what it means and how it will change our working environment as we collaborate with AI.
Often, we overlook the meanings of words because we think it’s not worth explaining them. This means missing the important messages they convey, especially concepts shaped by personal experience like cognition, thoughts, creative thinking, and flexible thinking.
Despite that fact we are using the term “AI” daily, we rarely ask ourselves what “intelligence” truly means. AI is a technology designed to imitate human cognitive abilities, including thoughts and thinking.
If we don’t grasp the true meanings of words like “thoughts” and “thinking” at a personal level, we are missing the meaning beyond the concept of AI.
When we dive into these discussions, fear can turn into excitement as we see the differences and opportunities AI offers. We discover what we excel at and where AI can complement us.
On an organizational level, we can identify where human cognitive skills are vital and where AI can excel, along with establishing governance to challenge AI’s thought processes.
I hope this inspires you to view AI differently and see the potential it brings, especially in fostering creative thinking.
Creativity is exciting because it lets us create and think in new ways we never thought possible. It’s the magic of bringing something new into existence.
If you’re unsure how to encourage creativity in your team, I’d be happy to assist you on this journey.
