Don’t Fear Artificial Intelligence (AI) - Make the Most of It
The first of many thoughts on AI.
AI isn’t coming. It’s already here. The genie is out of the bottle. Like the Internet and electricity, once world-changing innovation shows up, it becomes a part of everyday life. There is no going back. AI just happens to be moving faster than anything we’ve seen before. AI has already permeated many parts of our lives and has done so on a global level. Businesses are embracing it’s usefulness in automation and knowledge assistance. Individuals are using AI for a variety of things including writing assistance, generating lists and plans, research and even for personal conversations. AI is easy to use, often free, and full of potential to make our lives better.
Yes, there are some legitimate concerns. AI LLMs (Large Language Models) "hallucinate" or give bad info. This issue is known and can be managed. There are biases in training data and sometimes the default response is fabricated when there is none. You need to be aware and verify your results, but these issues do not negate the many beneficial uses. Every big invention has come with growing pains, but we always manage the risks without abandoning the technology entirely. It is important that those managing the technology offerings do so with public safety in mind. Regulation hasn’t caught up to AI as it has in more established industries like cars and toys.
What about AGI or Artificial General Intelligence? Experts routinely debate if, and when, AI will reach AGI, what it means and all the potential catastrophic impacts to humanity. But even AI experts don’t always know why the models respond the way they do. There is much still to learn and improve upon. There is also a lot of fear being generated around AI from voices including those who lack knowledge, special interests, and those who are resistant to change. There will always be nefarious characters regardless of available weapons. We can and should expect that globally people work to improve the technology to best help the world and minimize the risks to humankind. Support those who prioritize people, humanity and safety.
Here’s the bottom line-AI is not magic. It’s software. It runs on servers. You can turn it off. And more importantly, today, for virtually everyone, AI offers something of value in an accessible form. One of the greatest breakthroughs offered by LLMs is the ability to interact with technology using plain spoken or written language like English. Another breakthrough is its ability to scour and summarize massive amounts of data for you in response to any question you might have. This is now. Here for you. AI is already changing the way we work, learn, and create. And it’s only just beginning.
Over half of U.S. adults have already tried ChatGPT, Gemini or another AI tool. Tens of millions use them every day. But the rest haven’t and the main reason is fear. Fear of the unknown. Fear of getting it wrong. Fear of the tech itself. If you are fearful, the best way to protect yourself isn’t by avoiding it, it’s by learning about it. Thankfully, learning is one thing AI happens to be really good at helping with.
Just like smartphones, electricity, and cars, AI is becoming something we’ll all rely on. The big question isn’t if it will change things. It’s how we show up for that change. That’s a choice each of us gets to make.
We All Have a Role in Shaping How AI Unfolds
AI isn’t just for tech experts. It’s already affecting our lives and it’s up to all of us to help guide how it evolves. Here's how to engage:
1. Get Curious
Learn the basics, ask questions, learn more.
Don’t wait to “understand everything” before you explore.
Stay open. Keep experimenting with the available tools.
2. Speak Up Where It Matters
Pay attention to how AI is being used at work, in school, in services you rely on.
Ask for clarity when you’re unsure.
Participate in discussions and decisions about AI that affect your life.
3. Hold Tech Accountable
Expect companies to be transparent about how their AI works.
Push for ethical practices, privacy protections, and responsible design.
Support businesses that build with users—not just profits—in mind.
4. Bring Others Along
Share what you discover—especially with those who feel left behind.
Encourage conversations.
Help friends and coworkers find ways to explore AI in safe and meaningful ways.
AI can be one of the most powerful tools we’ve ever had—if we choose to engage with it wisely. You don’t have to love it, but also don’t ignore it. Try it. Ask questions. Make it work for you.
Here are some of the top AI models you can try out for yourself: