Opinion | Sherry Turkle says, with AI, we've entered 'a state of emergency'
Sherry Turkle, a prominent scholar on technology and society, recently declared in an opinion piece for The Boston Globe that the rapid integration of artificial intelligence has precipitated a 'state of emergency'.
The story
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Sherry Turkle, a prominent scholar on technology and society, recently declared in an opinion piece for The Boston Globe that the rapid integration of artificial intelligence has precipitated a 'state of emergency'. She argues that the unprecedented speed of AI adoption threatens fundamental human connections and cognitive processes. This commentary highlights the urgent need for society to pause and critically evaluate the ethical and social implications of these tools. For professionals, this signals a shift from mere technical adoption to a deeper consideration of human-centric values in an increasingly automated workplace.
Indicative index of skill mentions in professional job postings for the field this story moves (2019 = 1)
What this means
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You must now prioritise human-centric skills that AI cannot easily replicate. Emotional intelligence, complex ethical reasoning, and authentic interpersonal communication will surge in value as organisations seek to maintain trust and nuance. Leaders and managers should pay particular attention, as they will mediate between algorithmic efficiency and human well-being. A smart professional would immediately audit their current toolkit, focusing less on routine tasks and more on strategic empathy and critical thinking. Start by engaging in discussions about AI ethics within your team. Demonstrate your ability to navigate ambiguity and foster genuine connection. This approach positions you not just as a user of technology, but as a guardian of organisational culture and human value in the digital age.
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This briefing is based on reporting by The Boston Globe on 28 Sep, 07:26. Read the original coverage →
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