Introduction
Everyone has heard the narrative that computers, robots, and artificial intelligence (AI) are going to "take over the world." Whether it comes from science fiction movies or even Oxford professors, this idea is often presented alongside a dystopian vision of the future. In other words, discussions about AI "taking over" rarely focus on the potential benefits or positive impacts of this technological evolution.
Most people are familiar with the Pixar movie Wall-E. While the film is centered around a love story between an "old" robot and a new one, it conveys a much deeper message. It depicts a future in which humans have become entirely dependent on technology, losing their autonomy and physical vitality in the process. When I first watched this movie as a child, the idea seemed far-fetched. However, as an adult, I now realize that this could very well become a reality in the coming decades—if we allow it. This is where my discussion begins.
My Thoughts
First and foremost, I do not believe AI will "take over" in the way that many fear. However, I do believe it will become an increasingly powerful tool, leading to significant shifts in industries such as retail, food service, and manufacturing. Many of these jobs will likely transition to automated systems, replacing human labor with AI-driven machines. While this may seem concerning, I see it as an opportunity rather than a threat. AI has the potential to bridge gaps in people's knowledge, allowing those affected by job automation to acquire new skills and transition into more advanced roles. For instance, individuals can use AI-driven resources like ChatGPT to simulate job interviews, develop leadership skills, and learn new trades. While automation may eliminate certain positions, it will also create new opportunities—especially for those who proactively seek to position themselves in supervisory roles overseeing AI-driven operations.
Similarly, professions such as doctors, lawyers, and engineers are unlikely to be replaced by AI, even as machine learning continues to advance. The reason is simple: AI operates on patterns that can be mathematically defined, whereas human decision-making is far more complex. Humans rely on intuition, experience, and adaptability—qualities that cannot be easily replicated by machines. Even identical twins, who share the same genetic makeup, have unique personalities and perspectives. Expecting AI to fully replicate human cognition is unrealistic. Rather than aiming to replace professionals in critical fields, AI should be developed to assist them, streamlining tedious tasks and enhancing efficiency while leaving complex decision-making to humans.
AI in Agriculture
Another important area to consider is the intersection of AI and agriculture. I grew up in a rural town where farming—particularly dairy farming and cattle ranching—was a way of life. My father employed traditional farming methods, but over the 15 years I spent working on the ranch, I observed a gradual shift toward technology-driven solutions. As I pursued a career in engineering, I conducted research on emerging technologies designed to improve efficiency in agriculture while minimizing physical strain on farmers. What I discovered was eye-opening. The tools my father had implemented, which we once considered cutting-edge, were actually outdated compared to newer innovations available today.
Despite these advancements, widespread adoption of AI-driven farming technologies is still hindered by high costs. Autonomous tractors and AI-powered agricultural systems require significant investment, making them inaccessible to many farmers. Until these technologies become more affordable, many will continue relying on traditional methods. Additionally, I do not foresee a future in which AI completely "takes over" farming. Instead, I believe younger generations will recognize the long-term health risks associated with old farming practices and seek alternatives that incorporate technological assistance. Rather than replacing farmers, AI will serve as a tool to make their work more efficient and sustainable.
Conclusion
Ultimately, AI is an incredible tool that, if used wisely, can benefit society in countless ways. However, its impact will largely depend on how individuals choose to engage with it. Those who embrace AI as a means of learning and advancement will likely thrive, while those who resist change may struggle to adapt. I strongly believe that AI education should be prioritized so that people can learn how to harness its capabilities to their advantage.
The fear that AI will "take over the world" is largely unfounded. While automation will undoubtedly transform certain industries, it will also create new opportunities for growth and innovation. Rather than fearing AI, we should focus on integrating it into our lives in a way that enhances human potential. By proactively learning how to leverage AI, we can ensure that this technology serves as an asset rather than a threat. The future of AI is not about replacement but about augmentation—helping us achieve more than we ever could on our own.