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The beginning of Ai

The beginning of Ai

James Staines |

 James Staines 26-01-25 1.25am updated

AI and Its Future: Launched One Year On

The Day of the AI Safety Summit: November 1-2, 2023

The AI Safety Summit marked a crucial moment when like-minded individuals and global leaders convened to discuss the future of AI—its safety, security, and ethical implications. One of the central questions posed was: Should world powers have the authority to decide for the majority? If we reflect on the evolution of platforms like Facebook and other social media, we see how a small minority initiated significant changes, with the majority eventually following. Similarly, if one entity wields immense power over AI, how do we prevent the potential negative changes they could impose?

AI’s relevance often feels immediate, as we humans struggle to anticipate its long-term impacts. We know change is inevitable, yet its direction remains uncertain. Large powers are likely to shape AI advancements to suit their financial interests, not necessarily for the greater good. This summit represented a vital first step in ensuring these changes are made for the right reasons and benefit society as a whole.


The Question

A simple yet profound question continues to linger: *Do we run the technology we use, or does the technology run us? Please comment below! *

Some of us are well awake to the technology around us. Others not so much you only have to visit weather sppons and look at the average family not talking but all on phones!


The Machine That Woke Me Up

From my personal experience operating a CNC machine, I realised that the machine was effectively running me. At first, I wasn’t fully aware of why I was doing what I was doing; it all felt automatic. It wasn’t until I stepped back and reflected that I began to understand my direction and purpose. Now, I still love using the machine but with the clarity that I control it to create meaningful outputs.


Example: Pre-Computer Era (2000)

Growing up, I witnessed significant changes, particularly in healthcare. Take something as simple as a doctor’s visit: receptionists, doctors, and pharmacists worked together, ensuring tasks were completed accurately. If something went wrong, they would address it immediately. At that time, the most critical factor was the now. Things now get missed, forgotten, or there is just to much for one to do, the output of technology is not in control.


Example: Now (2023)

Fast forward 20 years, and we see healthcare staff tied to screens, flooded with data about a patient’s entire medical history. Yet, when you call to discuss a health issue or book a blood test, only the first sentence of that data might be read. As a diabetic, I’ve learned to judge my present actions based on past experiences, constantly adapting to ensure better outcomes. Similarly, AI relies on past and current data to predict outcomes. However, there are moments when human judgement must lead the way. Human judgment is being lost for as long as something becomes digitised. These should always be a strong conversation around Technology and what/how it changes things, Education is key, we don't even learn and have never learnt software is schools? Why you ask?


Fear

My greatest fear is that we might become so dependent on software for answers that we lose our ability to think critically. Will humans become so immersed in automation that we no longer understand our actions but merely follow instructions? (Its happing!) What happens when we can no longer discern what’s right or wrong? This is the concern. We’ve seen how technology can captivate minds—whether through social media, video games, or films—leaving us questioning our autonomy. We now have a price on our attention, We are the products. Be aware make sure your kids are aware. limit screen time make conversation, educate.


The Growth of Computers

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated our reliance on computers. While this brought certain conveniences, the aftermath might reveal even greater challenges. A lack of control and understanding of technology could lead to widespread misuse and inefficiency. People often use tools without fully comprehending their capabilities or limitations—a recipe for unintended consequences. Confused data that we as humans are happy to use with no control, no checks, no say. We are the sheep!


Predictions

AI has the potential to make remarkably accurate predictions based on consistent inputs and verified data. However, once those inputs change, the predictions can falter. Understanding this limitation is crucial to harnessing AI’s power effectively. To build a sustainable future, we must focus on smaller, manageable datasets that serve as foundational building blocks. For example, cryptographic data packets provide direction and purpose—a concept we can expand upon. Health care data should be split in to manageable pieces where they are joining and verified. Creating data sets we can all trust, we have all been a part or and have transparency around it.


Simple Implementation of AI

Regulating AI at its foundational levels, such as chatbots, could slow its growth just enough to allow for thorough study and analysis. This deliberate pace would enable us to monitor how AI impacts growing economies over several years, avoiding the rapid, unchecked technological advancements that humans may struggle to adapt to.


A Practical Example

At Custom Solutions, we build van racking systems for tradespeople to help them work smarter, not harder. By streamlining our production processes through machines, we’ve increased output. Incorporating AI tools to handle routine queries allows us to dedicate more time to what truly matters: innovation and customer satisfaction.

Selling a product isn’t just about the sale itself; it’s about the story behind why we do what we do. I’m constantly questioning, seeking answers—even when they seem elusive. By introducing AI into our small business operations, we can monitor its effects on efficiency and decision-making. The key lies in setting clear limits as a business owner and ensuring AI serves both our objectives and our customers’ needs. It’s about staying in control and understanding the why, when, where, and how of our actions.


What Else Can We Explore and look at Exploring?

  • Ethical AI Development: How do we ensure AI benefits society rather than exacerbating inequality? Available 1st February 2025

  • The Role of Education: Preparing future generations to work alongside AI, not in competition with it. Available 8th February 2025

  • AI in the Workforce: Striking a balance between automation and human employment.

  • Global Collaboration: Encouraging international cooperation to regulate AI responsibly.

  • Transparency in AI: Demanding openness about how AI systems make decisions.

  • AI and Privacy: Safeguarding personal data in an increasingly digitised world.

  • Future-Proofing Small Businesses: Practical strategies for integrating AI without losing the human touch.

  • AI in Healthcare: Exploring the balance between technological efficiency and personalised care.

Let me know how you’d like to expand this further! Comment below and become a part of the Custom Solutions Story.