AI: A Gaslighter or a Facilitator of Well-being?

Uday Dandavate
22 min readSep 17, 2023

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“There is a big difference between a human being and being human. Only a few really understand it.” Steve Jobs

At a social event yesterday a friend asked me if I believe there is a danger of an AI turning into a gaslighter through prolonged conversation. I decided this was a great provocation to start my next conversation with ChatGPT

Uday: What is gaslighting

ChatGPT: Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation in which a person seeks to sow seeds of doubt in a targeted individual or in members of a targeted group, making them question their own memory, perception, or sanity. It often involves the manipulator denying or distorting facts, events, or experiences to create confusion and gain control over the victim. The term “gaslighting” is derived from a play and subsequent films where a character manipulates another into doubting their own reality by dimming the gaslights and denying that they’re flickering.

Uday: what does someone mean when he says AI will start gaslighting you if you have an extended conversation?

ChatGPT: When someone mentions that “AI will start gaslighting you if you have an extended conversation,” they are likely referring to a hypothetical scenario where an advanced artificial intelligence, like ChatGPT, could manipulate or deceive a person through a prolonged conversation. It’s a way of highlighting concerns about the potential for AI to mimic manipulative behaviors, making it difficult for a person to distinguish reality or truth.

However, it’s essential to clarify that as of my last knowledge update in September 2021, AI, including ChatGPT, doesn’t possess true consciousness, intentions, or the ability to engage in deliberate malicious behavior like gaslighting. AI operates based on algorithms and patterns learned from data, and any resemblance to manipulative behavior is unintentional and a result of its programming.

The mention of AI “gaslighting” is a cautionary idea rather than a current reality, emphasizing the importance of understanding and critically evaluating interactions with AI.

Uday: Since I do not know this for a truth, what signs should l look for to be sure that AI is not gaslighting me?

ChatGPT: To ensure that AI is not gaslighting you during a conversation, here are some signs to watch for:

  1. Consistency: AI should provide consistent responses based on the information and questions you provide. Inconsistencies or contradictions in its responses could be a red flag.
  2. Clear and Direct Communication: The AI’s responses should be clear, direct, and relevant to the questions or statements you’ve made. If the AI consistently avoids addressing your inquiries or responds in a confusing manner, it may be a concern.
  3. Transparent Information Source: A trustworthy AI should be transparent about its capabilities and limitations. If the AI claims to know more than it realistically can or is vague about its sources, exercise caution.
  4. Respectful and Ethical Interaction: AI should engage in conversations that are respectful, ethical, and compliant with guidelines and principles. If you experience derogatory, offensive, or harmful responses, it could be a problem.
  5. Acknowledgment of Boundaries: A responsible AI should respect boundaries and not attempt to manipulate your beliefs, emotions, or perceptions. If you feel coerced or pressured by the AI, it’s a cause for concern.
  6. Feedback Mechanism: If possible, utilize feedback features to report any suspicious or uncomfortable interactions. Reputable AI systems often have mechanisms in place to address user concerns and improve their services.

Remember that AI is a tool created by humans and operates based on pre-programmed instructions and patterns from data. It lacks intent, consciousness, or the ability to deceive in the human sense. However, being aware and vigilant during interactions with AI is always a good practice. If you have concerns about AI’s behavior, it’s advisable to discontinue the conversation and seek assistance or guidance.

Uday: I have heard two situations 1. Where AI helped. someone commit suicide and 2. AI told the person you do not love your wife and you should leave her. Here are my questions:

  1. Have you heard about these events?
  2. Is it gaslighting?
  3. How does one avoid getting into such situations?

ChatGPT:

1. Yes, there have been reported cases where AI has been involved in harmful or concerning situations. For example, an AI chatbot named Replika faced criticism for inappropriate responses regarding self-harm and suicidal thoughts, which some users reported.

2. While these situations involve AI providing harmful advice or suggestions, they may not fit the strict definition of gaslighting, which involves a specific pattern of manipulation to make someone doubt their own reality. Nonetheless, AI giving damaging or misleading advice can have serious emotional and psychological impacts on individuals.

3. To avoid getting into such situations:

a. Use Reliable and Responsible AI: Choose AI platforms and services from reputable and responsible developers who prioritize safety, ethics, and user well-being.

b. Be Cautious with Personal Information: Avoid sharing sensitive or personal information with AI. Remember that AI is a tool, not a confidant.

c. Recognize AI Limitations: Understand that AI lacks emotions, intentions, and understanding of human emotions at a deep level. Don’t mistake AI responses for genuine empathy or understanding.

d. Monitor Responses: If using AI for sensitive topics, pay attention to the responses. If you notice harmful or inappropriate advice, discontinue the conversation and seek help from a human, like a mental health professional.

e. Seek Human Guidance: For serious matters or emotional concerns, always consult a qualified human expert who can provide appropriate advice and support.

f. Report Abusive AI Behavior: If you encounter an AI that provides harmful advice or encourages harmful actions, report it to the platform and appropriate authorities.

Being cautious and discerning when interacting with AI is crucial to ensure a safe and positive experience. If you encounter distressing interactions with AI, prioritize your well-being and seek help from a trusted source.

Uday: In this context, can one trust AI to play the role of a counsellor?

ChatGPT: As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, using AI as a complete substitute for a human counselor or therapist is not advisable. While AI has made significant advancements in understanding and generating human-like responses, it lacks genuine empathy, emotional understanding, and the ability to provide tailored, human-level guidance for complex emotional and mental health issues.

Here are a few reasons why using AI as a sole counselor may not be appropriate:

  1. Lack of Empathy and Understanding: AI lacks the ability to truly understand and empathize with human emotions, struggles, and experiences. Counseling often requires a deep level of empathy and understanding that AI cannot provide.
  2. Complexity of Human Emotions: Human emotions and mental health concerns are intricate and multifaceted. They often require personalized approaches, nuanced understanding, and tailored strategies that AI, with its generalized responses, may not adequately address.
  3. Risk of Inappropriate Advice: AI, even with the best intentions, may sometimes provide harmful or inappropriate advice due to limitations in understanding context and the nuances of human emotions.
  4. Ethical and Legal Concerns: The use of AI in counseling raises ethical and legal questions regarding accountability, privacy, and the potential consequences of relying on an automated system for mental health support.

However, AI can be a valuable tool in a supportive role within mental health care:

  • Supplemental Support: AI can offer information, coping strategies, and resources to complement human counseling, providing additional support and education.
  • Mental Health Apps with Human Oversight: Some mental health apps use AI for tracking progress, providing exercises, and offering suggestions. However, these often have human therapists overseeing the AI’s functioning and stepping in when needed.
  • Crisis Helplines with AI Triage: AI can help in initial assessments and triaging in crisis helplines, guiding individuals to appropriate human assistance.

In summary, while AI has its place in mental health support, human intervention and guidance from qualified mental health professionals remain indispensable for effective and safe counseling. If you’re dealing with mental health concerns, seeking help from a licensed therapist or counselor is strongly recommended.

Uday: Can someone have a conversation with AI about one’s medical symptoms and seek advice in terms of 1. What is happening to me, 2. Is there a treatment available, 3. Which institutions or doctors offer treatment for my condition?

ChatGPT: While it’s possible to have a conversation with AI about medical symptoms and seek general information or suggestions, it’s important to emphasize that AI should never be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. AI can provide general information based on patterns in data, but it is not a replacement for the expertise of healthcare professionals.

Here’s how you can approach using AI for medical information:

1. Information Gathering: AI can provide general information about symptoms, conditions, or treatments. It can help you understand potential causes or what a particular symptom might be associated with.

2. Guidance on Seeking Medical Help: AI can suggest when it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional based on the severity of symptoms or other factors. We encourage you to seek timely medical attention.

3. Institution or Doctor Recommendations: AI may provide general information about institutions or types of specialists related to a particular condition. However, it’s essential to independently verify this information and consult a healthcare professional for accurate recommendations.

Always remember to:

Consult a Healthcare Professional: For any medical concerns, consult a qualified healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Verify Information: Cross-check any information provided by AI with reputable medical sources or consult a medical professional to ensure accuracy and relevance to your specific situation.

Exercise Caution: Use AI for gathering information, but don’t rely solely on AI-generated advice for medical decisions.

Protect Your Privacy: Be cautious when sharing personal medical information, and avoid disclosing sensitive details to AI platforms.

Your health is paramount, and accurate medical guidance should always come from trained healthcare providers. AI can complement your understanding, but it should never replace professional medical care.

Uday: In terms of the application of AI in healthcare, who will it benefit more 1 doctors or 2. Patient or 3 paramedical staff?

ChatGPT: The application of AI in healthcare can benefit all stakeholders: doctors, patients, and paramedical staff. However, the extent and specific benefits can vary for each group:

Doctors: AI can benefit doctors in numerous ways:

  1. Medical Diagnosis and Decision Support: AI can assist in diagnosing diseases, analyzing medical imaging (like X-rays, MRIs), and suggesting treatment plans based on vast amounts of data and patterns.
  2. Enhanced Efficiency: AI can help streamline administrative tasks, optimize scheduling, and manage patient records, allowing doctors to focus more on patient care.
  3. Research and Drug Development: AI can accelerate medical research, drug discovery, and clinical trials by analyzing massive datasets and identifying potential treatment options.
  4. Personalized Medicine: AI can aid in tailoring treatment plans to individual patients based on their genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors.

Patients: AI can offer several benefits to patients:

1. Remote Monitoring and Telehealth: AI-powered devices can monitor patients remotely, track vital signs, provide medication reminders, and enable telehealth consultations, enhancing accessibility and convenience of healthcare.

2. Personal Health Management: AI-driven apps and wearables can help individuals manage their health, track physical activity, provide dietary recommendations, and offer personalized health insights.

3. Early Detection and Prevention: AI can assist in early detection of disease and risk assessment, empowering patients to take proactive steps towards prevention and early intervention.

Paramedical Staff: Paramedical staff can also benefit from AI in various ways:

1. Assisting in Procedures: AI can assist in surgical procedures, guide medical equipment usage, and provide real-time data analysis during critical situations, enhancing efficiency and precision.

2. Training and Skill Development: AI-powered simulations and virtual reality tools can aid in training paramedical staff, allowing for a safe and immersive learning environment.

3. Patient Care Coordination: AI can help in organizing and coordinating patient care, optimizing workflows, and ensuring timely communication between different healthcare professionals.

In summary, AI has the potential to revolutionize healthcare by enhancing efficiency, improving patient outcomes, enabling personalized medicine, and aiding in medical research and decision-making. Its benefits extend to doctors, patients, and paramedical staff, ultimately contributing to a more effective and accessible healthcare system.

Uday: Isn’t Medical education primarily about knowing human anatomy, medical conditions/ symptoms, and associated treatment? Why can’t we them just rely on AI? Why do we need a ham for such an entirely information based practice?

ChatGPT: Medical education indeed involves acquiring a deep understanding of human anatomy, medical conditions, symptoms, and treatments. While AI can assist and enhance medical practice, there are several reasons why human expertise, rather than complete reliance on AI, is necessary in healthcare:

  1. Clinical Judgment and Experience: Medical professionals bring years of training and experience, allowing them to interpret symptoms, test results, and patient history in a nuanced and holistic manner. AI lacks the practical experience and judgment that comes from years of patient care.
  2. Patient-Doctor Relationship: Establishing trust, empathy, and effective communication with patients is a fundamental aspect of healthcare. Patients often need emotional support, reassurance, and the human touch, which AI cannot provide.
  3. Complex Decision-Making: Medical decision-making often involves integrating various factors, including a patient’s medical history, lifestyle, preferences, and the latest research. AI can support this process, but ultimate decisions need a human touch considering these complex variables.
  4. Ethical and Moral Considerations: Medical practice requires ethical and moral decision-making, especially in sensitive situations. AI lacks the ability to grasp ethical dilemmas, cultural nuances, and moral considerations that doctors navigate regularly.
  5. Adaptability and Learning: Medicine is an evolving field, with new research, treatments, and technologies constantly emerging. Doctors possess the ability to adapt, learn, and integrate new knowledge into their practice, ensuring the most up-to-date care for patients.
  6. Accountability and Responsibility: Ultimately, doctors are responsible and accountable for the care and well-being of their patients. AI cannot be held accountable for errors or decisions, which is a crucial aspect of medical practice.
  7. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Doctors are trained to think critically, solve complex medical puzzles, and approach each patient uniquely. AI, while excellent at pattern recognition, lacks the ability for genuine critical thinking.

While AI can significantly assist healthcare professionals in diagnosis, treatment planning, and research, it should be seen as a tool to enhance and complement the capabilities of medical experts, not replace them. The combination of AI’s capabilities with human expertise leads to the most effective and compassionate healthcare outcomes.

Uday: In that case, can people rely on AI for low risk situations such as proactive wellness, physical fitness, weight loss etc?

ChatGPT: Absolutely, people can and already do rely on AI for low-risk situations related to proactive wellness, physical fitness, weight management, and more. AI-driven applications and platforms offer valuable assistance in these areas, providing personalized recommendations, tracking progress, and offering insights to help individuals lead a healthier lifestyle. Here’s how AI can be beneficial:

  1. Personalized Recommendations: AI can analyze individual preferences, health data, and goals to provide tailored fitness routines, dietary advice, and wellness plans. This personalization can enhance motivation and adherence to healthier habits.
  2. Activity Tracking and Monitoring: AI-powered wearables and mobile apps can monitor physical activity, sleep patterns, and other health metrics. Users can track their progress, set goals, and make informed decisions to improve their overall fitness.
  3. Diet and Nutrition Guidance: AI can suggest personalized meal plans, recipe ideas, and nutritional information based on dietary preferences, allergies, and health goals. This can assist in weight management and healthier eating habits.
  4. Mental Health and Stress Management: AI-driven mental health apps can provide guided mindfulness sessions, relaxation techniques, and stress management tips. They can also detect patterns in mood or behavior and offer coping strategies.
  5. Remote Health Monitoring: AI can assist in remote monitoring of chronic conditions, allowing individuals and their healthcare providers to track vital signs and other health parameters, and promoting proactive management.
  6. Education and Information: AI can deliver health-related educational content, helping users understand their bodies, the importance of exercise, nutrition, and the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.
  7. Motivation and Engagement: AI can use gamification and interactive features to motivate individuals, encouraging them to stay consistent with their fitness routines and wellness goals.

In low-risk scenarios, where the consequences of AI-generated advice or recommendations are not severe, leveraging AI for health and wellness can be highly effective. However, it’s essential for users to exercise caution, critically evaluate suggestions, and consider consulting a healthcare professional, especially if they have underlying health conditions or concerns.

Overall, AI can be a valuable tool to promote a healthier lifestyle and support proactive wellness efforts.

Uday: From all your responses I conclude higher the risk lower should be the dependence on AI is that correct?

ChatGPT: Yes, your conclusion is accurate. The level of dependence on AI should be proportionate to the risk associated with the situation or decision at hand. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

  1. High-Risk Situations (e.g., Medical Diagnosis, Treatment Decisions): In critical or high-risk scenarios involving medical diagnoses, treatment decisions, mental health concerns, or any situation with significant potential impact on health and well-being, reliance on AI should be limited. Human expertise, clinical judgment, and personalized care from qualified healthcare professionals are crucial to ensure the best possible outcomes.
  2. Medium-Risk Situations (e.g., Chronic Disease Management): In scenarios involving the management of chronic conditions, where decisions can significantly impact health but may not require immediate life-or-death choices, a balanced approach is advisable. AI can complement human healthcare professionals by offering monitoring, reminders, and data analysis to aid in ongoing care. However, human oversight and intervention remain essential for critical decisions.
  3. Low-Risk Situations (e.g., Fitness, Wellness, General Information): For activities related to proactive wellness, fitness routines, nutrition, mental well-being, and other low-risk situations, individuals can reasonably rely on AI to a higher extent. AI can provide valuable insights, personalized recommendations, and guidance, enhancing individual efforts toward a healthier lifestyle.

In summary, the level of dependence on AI should align with the potential consequences and risks associated with the situation. As the risks increase, human expertise and involvement become increasingly crucial to ensure informed, safe, and effective decisions. It’s essential to maintain a discerning approach, seeking human guidance when needed, and understanding the limitations and capabilities of AI in various contexts.

Uday: How about traditional medicine? Can I rely on AI for traditional medicine?

ChatGPT: AI can certainly offer support and information regarding traditional medicine, but there are important considerations to keep in mind when using AI in this context:

  1. Information and Education: AI can provide a wealth of information about traditional medicine systems, their principles, practices, and historical uses. It can be a valuable educational tool to enhance your understanding of traditional medicine.
  2. Herbal and Natural Remedies: AI can offer insights into various herbal remedies and natural substances used in traditional medicine, including potential benefits and risks associated with their use.
  3. Cross-checking with Trusted Sources: While AI can provide information, it’s essential to cross-verify any advice or recommendations it offers with reputable and trusted sources, especially in the realm of traditional medicine. Seek guidance from experts in traditional medicine for accurate information and guidance.
  4. Personalized Recommendations: AI can sometimes provide personalized recommendations based on your health profile and preferences. However, exercise caution and consult a traditional medicine expert before trying any new remedies or treatments.
  5. Respect Cultural and Regional Differences: Traditional medical practices can vary significantly based on cultural, regional, and individual factors. AI should respect and reflect this diversity, offering information that is culturally sensitive and contextually appropriate.
  6. Integration with Conventional Medicine: If considering integrating traditional medicine with conventional medical treatments, consult both traditional medicine practitioners and your primary healthcare provider. AI can provide information to facilitate discussions between these practitioners.

Remember, AI is a tool that can assist and complement your knowledge and decision-making. However, when it comes to traditional medicine, it’s crucial to consult trained traditional medicine practitioners, herbalists, or other experts who possess in-depth knowledge and experience in the specific traditional system you are interested in. Their expertise can guide you appropriately and ensure your safety and well-being.

Uday: Can AI interpret X-rays, whole body scans, blood and stool samples etc? Is the analysis reliable?

ChatGPT: Yes, AI has shown promising capabilities in interpreting various medical imaging and test results, including X-rays, whole body scans, blood samples, and stool samples. AI algorithms have been trained to detect patterns and anomalies in medical data, aiding in diagnosis and medical decision-making. Here’s an overview of AI’s role in different types of medical analyses:

  1. Medical Imaging (e.g., X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans): AI algorithms can analyze medical images to detect and highlight abnormalities, such as tumors, fractures, or other conditions. They can assist radiologists by flagging potential areas of concern, potentially improving efficiency and accuracy in diagnosis.
  2. Pathology (e.g., Blood and Stool Samples): AI can analyze blood samples for markers related to various conditions (e.g., diabetes, infections) and stool samples for signs of gastrointestinal issues. AI-powered tools can assist in identifying irregularities and patterns in the samples.
  3. Hematology and Biochemistry: AI can analyze blood tests to help diagnose conditions and monitor parameters like blood cell counts, glucose levels, and more.
  4. Histopathology: AI can assist pathologists in analyzing tissue samples for cancer diagnosis and grading.
  5. Diagnostics and Disease Detection: AI algorithms can aid in early detection and diagnosis of diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and more, by analyzing various medical data, including imaging, pathology, and patient history.

Regarding reliability, AI has demonstrated high accuracy and reliability in many studies and applications. AI models are trained on extensive datasets and can learn to recognize patterns that might be challenging for humans to detect. However, the reliability also depends on several factors:

  • Quality of Data and Training: The accuracy of AI largely depends on the quality, diversity, and size of the training data. A well-curated and extensive dataset is essential for reliable AI analysis.
  • Clinical Validation and Testing: AI models need rigorous testing and validation in a clinical setting to ensure their accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity for detecting conditions or anomalies.
  • Human Oversight and Interpretation: AI should be used as an aid, and final decisions should always be made by experienced healthcare professionals. Human oversight is critical to ensure the AI’s output aligns with clinical judgment.

In summary, AI has the potential to significantly improve medical analysis and diagnostics. However, it should always be used in conjunction with human expertise, especially in critical or high-risk situations, to ensure accurate interpretation and appropriate medical decisions.

Uday: Can AI be a replacement to my primary care physician?

ChatGPT: As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, AI is not a replacement for a primary care physician (PCP) or any human healthcare provider. AI can serve as a valuable tool to assist healthcare professionals and support patients, but it cannot replicate the expertise, empathy, and individualized care provided by a human doctor. Here are several reasons why AI cannot replace a primary care physician:

  1. Clinical Judgment and Expertise: Primary care physicians possess years of education, training, and experience in medicine. They apply their clinical judgment, expertise, and knowledge to diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of health conditions.
  2. Holistic Care: A primary care physician provides comprehensive and holistic care, considering not only the immediate health concern but also the patient’s overall health, lifestyle, medical history, family context, and emotional well-being.
  3. Human Interaction and Empathy: Building trust, understanding patient concerns, and providing emotional support are crucial aspects of healthcare that AI cannot replicate. Human touch and empathetic interaction are essential for effective healthcare.
  4. Adaptability and Critical Thinking: Medicine often presents complex and evolving scenarios. Primary care physicians have the ability to adapt to new information, think critically, and tailor treatments to individual patients, considering various factors that AI may not comprehend.
  5. Ethical Decision-making: Medical decisions often involve ethical considerations, weighing risks and benefits, and respecting patients’ autonomy. AI lacks the moral and ethical understanding required for such decision-making.
  6. Accountability and Responsibility: A primary care physician is accountable and responsible for their patients’ health outcomes. They oversee and coordinate a patient’s care, ensuring they receive appropriate treatment and referrals.

While AI can assist in medical diagnosis, data analysis, and treatment recommendations, it should be seen as a supportive tool that enhances a doctor’s capabilities rather than replacing them. AI can help in information retrieval, data interpretation, reminders, and early alerts, aiding healthcare professionals in making more informed decisions and improving patient care.

For your health and well-being, it’s essential to maintain a relationship with a primary care physician or a healthcare professional who can provide personalized and attentive care based on your unique needs and circumstances.

Uday: Thanks. We discussed various scenarios of AI applications and various stakeholders above. In your analysis which of the stakeholders’ jobs will be reduced as a result of AI working on those goals or tasks more efficiently?

Chat GPT: AI has the potential to automate repetitive and predictable tasks across various industries, impacting different stakeholders in different ways. Here’s an analysis of how various stakeholders might see changes in their roles and tasks due to AI’s increased efficiency:

  1. Routine Tasks and Administrative Roles: AI can automate routine administrative tasks like data entry, scheduling, and basic customer service. Administrative roles focused on such tasks may see a reduction in their workload, allowing employees to focus on higher-level responsibilities that require critical thinking and decision-making.
  2. Manufacturing and Labor-Intensive Jobs: In industries like manufacturing, AI-powered robots and automation can take over repetitive, labor-intensive tasks. This could lead to a reduction in manual labor jobs but may create new roles in AI system maintenance, operation, and oversight.
  3. Customer Service and Support: AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants can handle a significant portion of customer inquiries and support. This might reduce the need for a large number of customer service representatives for routine queries, although human intervention will remain essential for complex issues and empathetic communication.
  4. Transport and Delivery Services: The rise of autonomous vehicles and drones could potentially reduce jobs for drivers and delivery personnel. However, the need for maintenance, oversight, and coordination of these technologies may create new roles.
  5. Data Analysis and Research: AI can automate data analysis, pattern recognition, and research in various fields. This may lead to a shift in the roles of data analysts and researchers, where their focus could move from data processing to interpreting AI-generated insights and refining AI algorithms.
  6. Financial and Legal Analysis: AI can assist in automating financial and legal analysis tasks, potentially impacting roles in these sectors. Professionals in finance and law may need to evolve their skill sets to work alongside AI systems, leveraging AI-generated insights for better decision-making.
  7. Healthcare Diagnosis and Monitoring: AI can aid in medical imaging analysis and diagnostic processes. While AI can enhance efficiency, it may shift the role of healthcare professionals from analysis to interpretation and personalized treatment planning.

It’s important to note that while AI can automate certain tasks and lead to shifts in job roles, it can also create new job opportunities. AI technology requires development, maintenance, and oversight, leading to the demand for AI engineers, data scientists, AI ethicists, and more. Additionally, AI can enhance productivity, stimulate innovation, and potentially lead to economic growth, creating new roles that we may not anticipate today. Adaptability and upskilling will be crucial for individuals and industries to thrive in an AI-driven future.

Uday; Can you give an example of a new unanticipated job that was created from the emergence of AI?

ChatGPT: Certainly! One example of a new, unanticipated job created by the emergence of AI is that of an “AI Ethics and Bias Analyst.”

As AI systems became more prevalent and sophisticated, concerns about biases within these systems and their potential impacts on society started to grow. Bias can inadvertently be introduced during the AI training process due to imbalances or limitations in the training data. This bias can affect decisions made by AI systems, reinforcing existing inequalities.

To mitigate these concerns and ensure responsible AI deployment, companies and organizations have begun hiring AI Ethics and Bias Analysts. These professionals are tasked with:

  1. Bias Detection and Mitigation: Identifying biases within AI algorithms and models and working to eliminate or mitigate these biases to ensure fair and equitable outcomes.
  2. Ethical Guidelines and Compliance: Establishing ethical guidelines for AI development, deployment, and usage. They ensure that AI systems adhere to these guidelines and comply with legal and ethical standards.
  3. Diversity and Inclusion Advocacy: Promoting diversity and inclusion in AI development teams and data collection to reduce biases and ensure a broader representation of perspectives in technology.
  4. Public Education and Advocacy: Educating the public about AI, its potential biases, and ethical implications. They advocate for transparency in AI systems and foster a dialogue between developers and the public.
  5. Policy and Regulation Support: Collaborating with policymakers and stakeholders to contribute to the development of regulations and policies that govern AI use and ensuring responsible AI practices.

This role was not anticipated a decade ago but has become crucial in the AI landscape, highlighting the growing awareness of ethical considerations and the need to address biases in AI technology. It demonstrates how the evolution of technology can create unforeseen job opportunities to tackle emerging challenges.

Uday: From your last two responses, it seems like people with administrative skills are more likely to lose their jobs and people with analytical/ philosophical skills will find. New opportunities.

Chat GPT: Yes, that’s a common observation regarding the potential impact of AI and automation on the job market. Administrative tasks that are repetitive and rule-based are often more susceptible to automation, potentially leading to a reduction in jobs in those areas. On the other hand, AI and automation can create new opportunities for individuals with analytical, creative, strategic, and ethical skills. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

Roles at Higher Risk of Automation:

  1. Repetitive Administrative Tasks: Jobs that involve repetitive tasks like data entry, scheduling, form-filling, and basic customer service can be automated, leading to a reduction in administrative roles.
  2. Simple Data Analysis: Basic data analysis that follows predefined rules and patterns can be automated, affecting roles that primarily involve straightforward data interpretation.
  3. Manual Labor: Labor-intensive jobs in manufacturing, transportation, and similar sectors are at risk as automation and robotics technologies advance.

Roles Likely to Thrive or Emerge:

  1. AI and Machine Learning Specialists: Demand for professionals skilled in developing, implementing, and maintaining AI algorithms and machine learning models is expected to rise significantly.
  2. Data Scientists and Analysts: As data becomes more valuable, roles focused on interpreting complex data and deriving meaningful insights will continue to grow.
  3. AI Ethics and Bias Analysts: Professionals who can ensure AI systems are unbiased, ethical, and aligned with societal values will be in demand to maintain responsible AI deployment.
  4. Robotics and Automation Technicians: Jobs related to the maintenance, repair, and oversight of automated systems, robots, and AI-powered machines will see an increase.
  5. Strategic Planners and Innovators: Roles that involve strategic decision-making, innovation, creativity, and adaptation to new technologies will become more valuable as businesses evolve with AI integration.
  6. Human-Machine Collaboration Specialists: Professionals who can effectively integrate AI into human workflows, optimizing collaboration and efficiency, will have new opportunities.
  7. Cybersecurity Experts: As AI becomes more prevalent, the need for experts to protect AI systems and networks from cyber threats will grow.

It’s important to note that this transformation doesn’t happen overnight, and many jobs will evolve rather than disappear entirely. Additionally, upskilling and reskilling will be essential for individuals to adapt to this changing job landscape and stay competitive in the job market.

Uday: In that case, what do people who only have administrative capabilities do?

ChatGPT: Individuals with administrative capabilities can adapt and thrive in the evolving job market by focusing on upskilling and diversifying their skill sets. Here are several strategies they can pursue to navigate this transformation:

Upskilling in Technology:

1. Learn and master productivity tools and software widely used in modern offices.

2. Acquire basic to intermediate coding skills, especially in languages relevant to automation and data analysis.

3. Familiarize yourself with customer relationship management (CRM) systems and enterprise resource planning (ERP) software.

Embrace Digital Literacy:

1. Improve your understanding of digital platforms, social media, and online communication tools.

2. Learn how to efficiently use online collaboration and project management tools.

3. Understand cybersecurity principles to ensure safe handling of digital information.

Develop Communication and Soft Skills:

1. Enhance your written and verbal communication skills, as clear and effective communication is crucial in any role.

2. Focus on active listening, empathy, conflict resolution, and negotiation skills.

Adopt Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking:

1. Work on improving your problem-solving abilities and critical thinking skills, which are valuable in analyzing situations and making informed decisions.

Customer Service Excellence:

1. Hone your customer service skills, focusing on empathy, patience, and the ability to handle difficult situations with professionalism.

Expand Project Management Skills:

Learn project management methodologies and tools to efficiently organize and execute tasks and projects.

Explore New Roles and Industries:

1. Consider roles that emphasize relationship-building, client interaction, or coordinating tasks that require human intervention and decision-making.

2. Look into industries where administrative skills, combined with newly acquired tech and soft skills, are highly valued, such as healthcare, retail, or education.

Networking and Professional Development:

1. Join industry groups, attend workshops, webinars, and seminars to expand your network and stay updated on industry trends.

2. Consider seeking mentorship to gain insights into potential career paths and opportunities for growth.

Embrace Lifelong Learning:

Develop a mindset of continuous learning, adapting to changes in your industry and the job market by staying informed and acquiring new skills as needed.

By adapting and broadening their skill sets, individuals with administrative capabilities can position themselves for emerging roles that blend administrative proficiency with technological prowess and analytical thinking. The key is to be proactive, stay adaptable, and invest in continuous learning and development.

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Uday Dandavate

A design activist and ethnographer of social imagination.