The Future of Philosophy and Computer Science in an Age of A.I.

Introduction:

Mark Cuban recently asserted in an interview that a Computer Science (CS) degree may become less valuable than a Philosophy degree in the near future. While some may dismiss this claim as overly dramatic, it warrants serious consideration. In an age increasingly dominated by artificial intelligence (A.I.) and automation, the role of human ethics and judgment becomes paramount. This article explores why philosophy, the pursuit of understanding and wisdom, will continue to be indispensable in a world heavily reliant on technology.

The Importance of Practopoiesis and Ideasthesia

Philosopher Eleonora Sergio outlines the concept of practopoiesis and ideasthesia, which emphasize the practical and experiential nature of life. These biological phenomena are central to our ability to understand and interact with the world around us. Unlike A.I., which can analyze vast amounts of data, it lacks the ability to practopoiesis—that is, to actively create and maintain its own organization through feedback loops. Similarly, A.I. does not possess ideasthesia, the experience of mental states that arise from these interactions.

The Limits of A.I. in Ethical and Humanistic Fields

The core argument against the assertion that CS degrees will become less valuable lies in the fundamental limitations of A.I. in fields that require ethical judgment and humanistic understanding. Philosophy, by definition, deals with the essential questions of life, including ethics, morality, and the nature of reality. These are topics that A.I. struggles to comprehend and apply in a meaningful way:

Ethical Judgments: A.I. can analyze data and provide solutions based on predefined algorithms. However, it cannot make nuanced ethical judgments or understand the complexities of human emotions and motivations. For example, in the legal system, A.I. may flag certain cases for human review, but it cannot make decisions such as whether to prosecute or give a lenient sentence. This level of judgment and understanding is uniquely human and relies on philosophical reasoning. Laws and Regulations: Philosophical principles underpin the development of laws and regulations. The understanding of rights, justice, and fairness is not just a matter of technical implementation but also requires deep ethical consideration. A.I. cannot replace this humanistic perspective and the complex reasoning that goes into creating and enforcing laws. Human Interactions: In fields such as psychology, social work, and policing, personal relationships and interpersonal dynamics are crucial. A.I. can never replicate the nuanced understanding and empathetic responses that humans provide. For instance, a therapist working with a patient with anxiety-related disorders cannot be replaced by an A.I. system because the human’s ability to empathize and provide emotional support is invaluable.

Furthermore, A.I. lacks the ability to engage in holistic reasoning and consider the broader implications of its actions. This is where philosophical thought is crucial. Philosophers can explore questions like 'what is the difference between technological sophistication and technological invasion,' 'how do we balance technological progress with human well-being,' and 'what are the ethical boundaries of A.I. implementation?'

Philosophy and the Future of Human Interaction with Technology

As technology continues to advance, the role of philosophy becomes even more significant. Philosophers can help shape the ethical and moral frameworks that guide the development and use of A.I. They can ensure that technology is used in a way that respects human dignity and promotes the common good. Here are some ways philosophy will play a crucial role in this future:

Ethical Guidelines: Philosophers can develop ethical guidelines and frameworks that A.I. can follow. These guidelines address issues such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the potential misuse of technology. Social Debate: Philosophy encourages critical thinking and reflection, which are essential for public discourse. As nations and societies debate the implementation of A.I., philosophers can provide the necessary insights and arguments to ensure that these technologies are developed and used responsibly. Informed Decision-Making: Philosophical reasoning helps in making informed decisions about the deployment of technology. For instance, a philosopher can provide arguments for or against the use of extensive surveillance, helping policymakers weigh the benefits against the risks to personal freedom and privacy.

In conclusion, the assertion that a Computer Science degree will become less valuable than a Philosophy degree is a testament to the importance of humanistic thinking in an increasingly technological world. While A.I. can perform many tasks more efficiently and accurately than humans, it lacks the ability to understand and apply ethical principles, emotions, and complex human interactions. Philosophy, with its focus on ethical judgment, holistic reasoning, and the understanding of human relationships, will remain indispensable in guiding the future of technology.