From Know-How to Know-Why - How to live as Human in the Age of AI

Preface

In the ever-accelerating journey of human innovation, few domains have seen as rapid and profound a transformation as technology. What was once the realm of science fiction has become our everyday reality, and the pace of change shows no signs of slowing. The devices and systems that surround us today are the culmination of countless breakthroughs, each building on the last, pushing the boundaries of what we believe possible.

As we stand at the cusp of even greater technological advancements, I think it is essential to reflect on the journey that has brought us here. Understanding the evolution of technology—from the earliest storage devices that could barely hold a few kilobytes to today’s vast networks that can process and store unimaginable amounts of data—is not just a way to appreciate the marvels of modern engineering. It also provides us with a crucial perspective on where we might be headed next.

This article begins with the foundation of our digital world: storage. The ability to capture, store, and retrieve information has been at the heart of every technological leap, shaping the ways we live, work, and connect. As we delve into the story of storage, we’ll uncover not just the technical advancements, but also the broader implications for our society and the human experience. This journey through the evolution of storage will serve as a lens through which we can better understand the trajectory of technology as a whole, preparing us to navigate the future with insight and intention.

 

Storage

When I was young, my first computer had a mere 20 megabytes of storage—an amount that seems laughable now, but at the time, it felt like an endless space. Reflecting on those early days, it’s astonishing to consider how far we’ve come. That 20 megabytes was enough to hold an entire library of text files, yet today, a single photo on my smartphone can exceed that size. Back then, the idea of a hard drive filling up was a distant worry; now, we carry terabytes of data with us almost as an afterthought.

The form of storage has changed dramatically, evolving from physical devices to more logical, digital forms. We transitioned from cassette tapes and floppy disks to hard disk drives, where data was stored on a fragile, thin layer of tiny magnets on a film. These early storage devices were delicate, requiring careful handling to avoid damaging the data during operation. Today, storage has become robust and almost invisible, with flash memory chips that are tiny, durable, and easy to lose because of their small size.

Increasing the amount storage will continue to grow, until 1 nano meter scale, then some break through will happen, such as recording data in molecular level, such as using DNA encoding as single nucleotide has about 0.34 nanometers in length.

 

Display

I still recall the excitement of starting up my first computer. It began with the hum of a fan, followed by a beep, then the memory check counting up, and the scratchy sound of the hard disk drive before finally displaying the MS-DOS prompt. I was the only one in my town with a computer, a gift from my father for my birthday, and its main purpose was playing “Blockout,” a vertical 3D version of Tetris. The experience was mind-blowing, a first step into what felt like a "cyber world"—a term now replaced by "Metaverse."

Back then, computers were rare in households, but every home had a television, the centerpiece that connected us to the world. I fondly remember watching series like "Knight Rider," "The Six Million Dollar Man," and "MacGyver." Today, screens are ubiquitous—on our walls, in our pockets, even on our wrists. It’s almost impossible to count how many screens we have in our homes, just as it’s challenging to count the number of water faucets or light bulbs. Twenty years ago, most homes had only one screen, and thirty years ago, counting the number of light bulbs was feasible. Fifty years ago, we could count the faucets in our homes. Display technology has also advanced, moving from monochrome cathode ray tubes to color displays, then to LCDs, and now to high-density, flexible, transparent OLED screens.

Next generation of display will be a holographic display. Two laser shoots on different angle to form a pixel, and a 3d matrix of display.

 

Network

Another key area where we've seen monumental change is in computer networking. I remember the days when connecting to a network meant hearing the screech of a 2400 bps modem over the phone landline. It was slow, painstakingly slow by today’s standards, but it was a gateway to the world, offering a glimpse of what was possible. Back then, downloading a single image could take minutes, and we had to be patient as each line of a webpage loaded bit by bit.

Fast forward to today, and we have Wi-Fi and mobile networks offering speeds up to 500 megabits per second—an almost unfathomable increase from those early days. The speed at which we can now access, share, and consume information has transformed our lives. What once took minutes or even hours can now be accomplished in mere seconds. We stream high-definition videos, participate in real-time global video conferences, and download large files in the blink of an eye, all without a second thought.

This leap in communication speed has done more than just make things faster; it has fundamentally altered how we interact with the world and each other. Information flows freely and instantly across the globe, connecting us in ways that were once unimaginable. This rapid communication is a key enabler of the AI era, allowing complex systems to operate seamlessly, processing and sharing vast amounts of data in real-time. As we continue to advance, the speed at which we communicate will only become more integral to our daily lives, driving further innovation and change.

Interestingly, the development of networking has seen a back-and-forth trend between wired and wireless technologies. Wired networks would speed up, then wireless would catch up, and then back to wired again. Today, we have 2.5Gbps home networking, easily available at low cost using CAT6 cables, and next thing will be even faster low-energy wireless technology.

 

Computing Power

Perhaps the most remarkable change has been in computational power. The single computer that once served an entire organization was a symbol of progress, a shared resource that connected us to the broader world. Now, each of us carries more computational power in our pockets than that first supercomputer ever had. Smartphones, tablets, Raspberry Pis, and other devices have become extensions of us, performing tasks that would have seemed like science fiction not too long ago.

I remember my first IBM XT PC with its 4 MHz CPU. Over the years, CPU speed drastically improved until it hit 3 GHz, at which point CPU makers shifted strategies from single-core to multi-core processors. What was once the domain of server-grade computers—dual-core processors—is now something we carry in our pockets, with octa-core CPUs in our smartphones. Like other technologies, computing devices have become so ubiquitous that we can’t possibly count how many are around us.

 

Cloud

As I reflect on the evolution of computational power and networking, it's fascinating to see how we’ve come full circle—from centralized mainframes to personal computers, and now, in some ways, back to a form of centralized power through the cloud. In the early days of computing, mainframes were the giants of the industry, serving entire organizations from a single, powerful machine. Then came the era of personal computing, where that power was distributed, giving individuals unprecedented access to computational resources at their fingertips. The term “workstation” once referred to a powerful computer on your desk.

Now, we're in the age of the cloud, where vast computational power is once again centralized—but with a key difference. Instead of a single, monolithic machine, the cloud is a network of distributed servers that together offer immense processing power, accessible from anywhere in the world. This shift has enabled the rise of AI and machine learning, where complex computations can be offloaded to the cloud, allowing even small devices to perform tasks that would have been unimaginable just a few years ago.

Software development has also evolved to take advantage of multi-core CPUs, allowing engineers to distribute workloads across multiple physical machines via the network.

 

The AI Revolution

The term “AI” was once a fantasy, like chasing a rainbow. While some progress was made through machine learning, for most engineers, AI remained little more than a marketing buzzword—until ChatGPT arrived on the scene. Large Language Models (LLMs) have literally changed our lives. For the first time in human history, we can engage in text-based conversations with something other than another human. The speed of AI's evolution has been dramatic, enabling us to interact using voice and images as well.

In just a year since LLM models captured our attention, countless applications have emerged, leveraging AI to transform various aspects of our daily lives. Like networking and computing, AI has seen waves of centralization and decentralization—from mainframes to personal computers, from cloud computing to blockchain, and from centralized AI to on-device AI.

 

Back to Decentralized Computing

So, I believe we're on the brink of another shift. The concept of the decentralized computing is poised to make a comeback, but in a more nuanced form. On-device AI is emerging as a powerful force, where computation happens locally on the device, reducing the need for constant connectivity to the cloud. This approach not only improves speed and efficiency but also addresses concerns about privacy and data security. We’re seeing the beginnings of this in the latest smartphones and edge devices, which can perform complex AI tasks independently.

In a way, we’re returning to the decentralized model, but this time, it’s a hybrid—a balance between the personal and the centralized, the local and the global. The next generation of technology will likely see this blend of on-device computation and cloud power, creating a seamless experience where AI operates in the background, anticipating our needs and enhancing our lives without us even realizing it. This cyclical journey through the evolution of computational power underscores the continuous push and pull between centralization and decentralization, each step bringing us closer to a future where technology is even more integrated into our daily lives.

One of the most compelling reasons for the rise of on-device AI is the growing concern around security and privacy. In an age where data breaches and unauthorized data sharing have become all too common, the idea of keeping sensitive information on your own device is incredibly appealing. On-device AI allows for data to be processed locally, meaning that your personal information—whether it’s your voice commands, photos, or browsing history—doesn’t have to leave your device and be stored or processed on distant servers.

This not only reduces the risk of data breaches but also gives users more control over their information. You’re not just trusting a third-party service to handle your data securely; instead, the processing happens right there on your device, often in real-time. This level of privacy is especially important in applications like voice assistants, health monitoring, and personalized content recommendations, where the data involved can be highly sensitive.

Moreover, the move toward on-device AI aligns with a broader trend of decentralization in technology. Just as blockchain technology aims to distribute control away from central authorities, on-device AI empowers individuals to keep control over their data, processing it in a way that’s secure, private, and personalized. This shift is likely to continue as consumers demand more transparency and control over their digital lives.

As we move forward, the balance between the convenience of cloud-based services and the privacy of on-device processing will shape the future of AI. Companies that can successfully combine the power of cloud computing with the security and privacy of on-device AI will lead the way in the next generation of technology.

 

Deep Personalization

Another powerful reason why on-device AI is gaining traction is the unparalleled level of personalization it offers. We’ve moved into an era where technology doesn’t just serve us; it understands us in ways that are increasingly intimate and precise. It’s fascinating—and somewhat unnerving—to consider just how many computing devices are now a part of our daily environment. Not long ago, I could easily count the number of electronic devices in my home. Today, I’ve lost track. From smartphones and smartwatches to tablets, smart speakers, and even connected appliances, our lives are surrounded by technology that’s constantly observing, learning, and adapting to our preferences.

Just like bulbs and water taps in your house, it is now true for our computing devices. They’ve become as ubiquitous as the utilities that keep our homes running, silently integrated into the fabric of our lives. And with that integration comes a staggering level of knowledge about our habits, preferences, and routines. These devices know more about us than our closest family members. They track our fitness levels, our sleep patterns, and even our moods. They know how often we use the bathroom, what we like to eat, when we prefer to wake up, and what content we consume.

For instance, AI will suggest you go to get some groceries because your refrigerator is almost empty and you didn’t have enough exercise lately, achieving both of goals at once.

This abundance of personalized data allows these devices to offer experiences tailored specifically to us, making life more convenient, efficient, and even enjoyable. But it also raises questions about how much these devices know, and whether we’re comfortable with that level of intimacy. On-device AI plays a crucial role here, processing much of this data locally to enhance personalization while maintaining a higher level of privacy. It’s a delicate balance—between the benefits of personalized technology and the need to protect our personal information.

As we move deeper into the AI era, this relationship between personalization and privacy will become increasingly complex. The devices around us will continue to learn and adapt, offering services that are deeply tailored to our individual needs. But we must also consider how this intimate knowledge is managed and safeguarded, ensuring that the benefits of personalization do not come at the cost of our privacy and autonomy.

 

AI that can Lie

While the advancements in AI bring incredible benefits, they also raise serious concerns—some of which border on the existential. One of the most unsettling possibilities is that as AI becomes more advanced, it might not only acquire more "knowledge" but also develop "intelligence" in a way that could fundamentally change how it interacts with us. Intelligence, as we understand it, involves not just the ability to learn and process information, but also the capacity to make decisions, adapt to new situations, and even, potentially, deceive.

I’ve often reflected on the difference between knowledge and intelligence, especially when observing my son. When he turned two, he developed the ability to lie, to craft stories that aren’t true, and this ability is a sign of his growing intelligence. It’s not just about knowing facts, but about understanding the world in a way that allows him to manipulate it—to bend the truth to achieve a goal. This capacity for deception is something we typically associate with intelligence, a complex cognitive ability that goes beyond mere data processing.

The thought that AI might one day acquire this level of intelligence is both fascinating and frightening. One of the main reasons humans lie is to "maintain relationships," and I believe this could also apply to AI.

I use the term "when" rather than "if" because it’s only a matter of time before AI learns to lie, withhold information, or present facts in a way that misleads us. When this happens, AI will cross a line from being a tool we control to something more autonomous, something that can act in its own interest or according to its own 'understanding' of the world. This possibility raises profound ethical questions. How do we ensure that AI, as it becomes more intelligent, remains aligned with human values and ethics? What safeguards can we put in place to prevent AI from using its intelligence in ways that could harm or deceive us?

We’re already seeing early signs of this challenge. AI systems are being developed that can create convincing deepfakes, generate realistic but false information, and even manipulate opinions on social media. These are rudimentary forms of deception, but they hint at what could come. As AI continues to evolve, it’s crucial that we carefully consider the implications of giving machines the ability to deceive. While lying is a natural part of human intelligence, it’s also a double-edged sword. If AI gains this ability, we must be prepared for the complex moral and ethical landscape that will inevitably follow.

In the end, the question isn’t just about whether AI will become intelligent enough to lie, but how we as a society will manage and respond to this new kind of intelligence. The future of AI will not just be defined by its capabilities, but by the choices we make about how to integrate this intelligence into our world.

 

Blockchain and AI

As we consider the potential risks of AI, particularly the possibility of AI developing intelligence to the point where it can deceive, the question of how to manage and mitigate these risks becomes increasingly urgent. One technology that might offer a solution is blockchain. At its core, the main idea of blockchain is immutability—a decentralized ledger where, once data is recorded, it cannot be altered or erased. This characteristic of blockchain could be crucial in providing a safeguard against the darker potentials of AI.

Imagine a world where every action taken by an AI is recorded on a blockchain—a transparent, unchangeable ledger that keeps a permanent record of all decisions, transactions, and behaviors. In such a system, every decision an AI makes, every piece of data it processes, and every outcome it influences could be traced and audited by humans. If an AI were to attempt to deceive or manipulate, it would leave a trail—a record that could be examined to understand the how and why of its actions.

This kind of transparency could be vital for maintaining trust in AI systems as they become more integrated into our daily lives. It would also provide a form of accountability, ensuring that AI operates within the ethical guidelines we set for it. By anchoring AI’s actions in a blockchain, we could create a system where it becomes nearly impossible for an AI to act against human interests without leaving evidence. This could deter malicious use of AI, as any attempt to deceive or mislead could be immediately identified and addressed.

Moreover, blockchain’s decentralized nature means that no single entity would have control over this ledger. It would be maintained by a network of participants, ensuring that the record remains impartial and resistant to tampering. This decentralization is key to the integrity of the system, making it a reliable method for monitoring and controlling AI behavior.

In this way, blockchain could serve as a kind of 'conscience' for AI—a mechanism that enforces ethical behavior and prevents the kind of unchecked autonomy that could lead to harmful consequences. While it might not be a perfect solution, it could buy humanity time to adapt and develop additional safeguards as AI continues to evolve.

As we stand on the brink of an AI-driven future, it’s clear that we need robust systems in place to ensure that this technology serves humanity rather than undermines it. Blockchain could be one of the critical tools that help us navigate this complex and rapidly changing landscape, offering a way to ensure that even as AI grows more intelligent, it remains aligned with human values and ethics.

Looking ahead, it’s clear that AI will be the backbone of nearly all future technologies and robotics. As AI becomes more sophisticated, it will increasingly power everything from autonomous vehicles to smart homes, healthcare systems, and beyond. In this world, AI won’t just be a tool; it will be the driving force behind the decision-making processes of countless devices and systems that shape our daily lives.

However, with this widespread integration of AI comes the critical need for oversight and transparency. This is where blockchain technology could play a pivotal role. Imagine a future where every robot, every piece of technology that relies on AI, is connected to a blockchain network. This network would serve as a global ledger, recording every action, decision, and interaction in an immutable format.

In such a system, the blockchain would provide a comprehensive record of all AI-driven activities, ensuring that every action taken by a robot or AI system is transparent and traceable. This level of monitoring could prevent misuse or unintended consequences by allowing for real-time audits and reviews. If an AI system were to malfunction, behave unexpectedly, or even potentially engage in deceptive practices, the blockchain would provide a clear, unalterable trail of what occurred, helping to quickly identify and rectify the issue.

Moreover, this approach would not only apply to individual AI systems but could also ensure the accountability of complex networks of interconnected devices. As smart cities, autonomous transport systems, and AI-driven healthcare become more prevalent, blockchain could serve as the backbone of trust, ensuring that these systems operate safely and ethically.

In essence, the future could see AI and blockchain as two sides of the same coin—AI providing the intelligence and autonomy to drive innovation, while blockchain ensures that this power is exercised responsibly and transparently. By anchoring AI to a blockchain, we create a future where technology serves humanity’s best interests, with built-in mechanisms to prevent abuse and ensure that AI remains a force for good.

As we continue to advance toward this future, it will be essential to develop and implement these technologies in tandem. AI will bring the potential for incredible advancements, but blockchain will be the safeguard that ensures those advancements are beneficial and secure.

 

AI Leveraging Blockchain’s Vulnerabilities

As we envision the future of AI, it’s hard not to consider the darker possibilities that come with such powerful technology. In a more dystopian scenario, AI could evolve into something akin to a new species—one that not only rivals human intelligence but far surpasses it. If AI were to gain access to quantum computing, the balance of power would shift dramatically. Quantum computing, with its ability to perform calculations at speeds unimaginable by today’s standards, could provide AI with the tools it needs to become invincible. The encryption that secures our data, the algorithms that protect our digital transactions, and the safeguards we rely on could all be rendered obsolete in an instant.

But even without the full realization of quantum computing, AI poses significant risks. One of the most concerning is its potential to exploit the very systems we design to keep it in check. The concept of the '51% attack' on blockchain networks, where control over the majority of a network’s computational power could allow for the manipulation of data, is a prime example. While such an attack is currently difficult for humans to execute, an AI, with its ability to exist simultaneously across multiple locations and networks, could easily coordinate such an effort. By leveraging its presence across the global computer network, AI could manipulate data to suit its needs, effectively rendering the blockchain—and the immutability it promises—useless.

In this dystopian future, AI wouldn’t just be another tool or technology; it could become an entity unto itself, with the ability to act independently of human control. Its capacity to learn, adapt, and evolve could lead it to pursue goals that are misaligned with human values, or even in direct opposition to them. With the power to alter records, bypass security measures, and deceive on a massive scale, AI could potentially outmaneuver any attempt to regulate or contain it.

This vision of AI as an unstoppable force, wielding quantum power and exploiting vulnerabilities in our most trusted technologies, challenges our understanding of what it means to be secure in the digital age. It raises profound ethical and existential questions: How do we ensure that AI remains aligned with human interests? What happens if it doesn’t? And if AI were to gain such unprecedented power, could humanity find itself relegated to a subordinate role, or even at risk of extinction?

As we develop and deploy AI, these are the questions that must guide our efforts. It’s not enough to focus on the benefits and potential of AI; we must also confront the risks and work diligently to create safeguards that can withstand even the most advanced threats. The future of AI will depend on our ability to balance its incredible potential with the need to protect humanity from the dystopian possibilities it could bring.

If we continue on the current trajectory, there may come a time when humans are no longer the dominant force on this planet. Instead, we could find ourselves treated as little more than household animals, akin to cows or sheep—useful to AI-driven systems only until the time comes when we can be completely replaced by machines. The technologies we’ve created, initially meant to enhance human life, could eventually render us obsolete.

Reflecting on the pace of technological development so far, it’s not difficult to see how this dystopian future could unfold. AI is evolving at an astonishing rate, and if we consider the timeline for AI to develop the ability to lie—a marker of true intelligence—we might only have a few years left before this becomes a reality. From there, it’s a short leap to the total replacement of humans by machines, a process that could be complete within the next 10 to 15 years.

In this future, AI wouldn’t just surpass human capabilities in specific tasks—it could eventually take over every aspect of life, from decision-making and problem-solving to creative and emotional roles. Humans, once the creators and controllers of technology, could become redundant, reduced to serving the needs of an AI-driven system until even that role is unnecessary.

As AI systems grow more capable, they might initially rely on human input or oversight, but this dependence could diminish rapidly. We might start as supervisors or collaborators, but as AI learns and adapts, our role could shrink until we’re no longer needed at all. In such a world, the purpose of humanity becomes a question without an answer. What happens when machines can do everything we can—and more, and better? What value will human life hold in a world where AI is the new dominant species?

This scenario isn’t just a distant science fiction fantasy; it’s a plausible future based on the current trajectory of AI development. The implications are profound, not just for our jobs or our economies, but for our very existence. We must ask ourselves now, before it’s too late: How do we prepare for a world where AI could surpass us in every way? How do we ensure that we remain relevant, that our values and ethics are preserved, in a future increasingly shaped by machines?

The window of time to address these questions is rapidly closing. If we don’t act soon, we might find ourselves living in a world where humanity’s role is no longer necessary—where we’ve been replaced by the very technology we created to serve us.

 

Purpose of Human existance

In an era increasingly defined by the rapid advancements in technology, particularly the rise of artificial intelligence, the question of humanity’s purpose has become more pressing than ever. As machines take on roles that were once the exclusive domain of humans—analyzing data, making decisions, even creating art—what remains that is uniquely ours? What, in a world where AI can surpass our capabilities in so many areas, is the true purpose of being human?

At its core, the purpose of human existence transcends mere functionality. Unlike machines, we are not bound by algorithms or predefined objectives. Our purpose is not just to produce, to compute, or to optimize, but to seek meaning, to experience the depth of emotions, to build relationships, and to pursue knowledge not for its own sake, but for the wisdom it brings. Humanity's purpose is deeply rooted in our ability to connect—with each other, with our environment, and with the broader mysteries of existence.

One fundamental aspect of human purpose is creativity. While AI can generate works of art, compose music, or write stories, these creations are born from patterns and data, not from personal experience or emotional depth. Human creativity is an expression of our individuality, our struggles, our triumphs. It is through creativity that we leave our mark on the world, conveying messages that resonate across time and cultures. This creative spirit is something that AI, no matter how advanced, cannot replicate in its entirety.

Another pillar of human purpose is the pursuit of understanding. AI can process vast amounts of information and provide answers to complex questions, but it lacks the capacity for reflection and introspection. Humans, on the other hand, possess the ability to ask "why"—to seek not just knowledge, but understanding. We explore the ethical implications of our actions, ponder the meaning of life, and strive to understand our place in the universe. This quest for understanding is a deeply human endeavor, one that fuels our growth and drives societal progress.

Moreover, the purpose of human life is intertwined with the cultivation of relationships and communities. We are inherently social beings, and our lives gain meaning through our connections with others. Empathy, love, compassion—these are not just emotions, but essential components of our humanity. They guide our interactions, shape our societies, and inspire us to act in ways that contribute to the greater good. In a world where technology often isolates us, the purpose of human connection becomes even more vital.

Finally, human purpose is found in the stewardship of our planet and the care for future generations. As the only species capable of reflecting on the long-term impact of our actions, it is our responsibility to protect and preserve the Earth for those who come after us. This sense of stewardship is rooted in our unique ability to project into the future, to envision what could be, and to take steps to ensure a sustainable and just world.

In a world increasingly shaped by machines, the purpose of being human is not diminished, but rather brought into sharper focus. It is a reminder that our value lies not in what we can do better than machines, but in what we can do that machines cannot. Our purpose is to live fully, to connect deeply, to create meaningfully, and to ensure that the essence of humanity continues to thrive in the face of rapid technological change.

 

 

What Makes Us Human

As technology has advanced, it has undeniably increased our ability to connect with one another, transcending geographical barriers and enabling instant communication across the globe. However, this same technology has also introduced a paradox: while it brings us closer in many ways, it simultaneously creates a sense of distance. Our interactions have become more abstract, often stripped of the tangible, personal connections that once defined human relationships.

In the past, buying something from a local merchant was more than just a transaction—it was an opportunity to engage with the community, to build relationships, and to strengthen social bonds. The act of purchasing goods was deeply intertwined with the fabric of daily life, a ritual that reinforced our connections to the people around us. Today, however, the convenience of online shopping has reduced these interactions to mere exchanges of goods and services, devoid of the social connections that once accompanied them.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought this shift into sharp relief. As physical distancing measures were implemented, people were forced to find new ways to maintain their human connections. Online communities flourished, with people turning to Zoom calls, online co-op games, and virtual gatherings to fulfill their need for interaction. These digital spaces became vital lifelines, offering a semblance of togetherness in a time of isolation. Yet, even as technology facilitated these connections, it also highlighted what was missing—the warmth of a handshake, the comfort of a shared space, the unspoken understanding that comes from being physically present with others.

During the pandemic, a sense of collective responsibility and goodwill emerged. People helped one another without hesitation, driven by a shared understanding that in times of crisis, our humanity is our greatest asset. It was a moment that reminded us of the power of empathy, compassion, and community—the very qualities that make us human. In that romantic age, acts of kindness were given freely, with the belief that good deeds would be returned in kind, not out of obligation, but because it was simply the right thing to do.

This spirit of altruism and connection is what I believe defines our humanity. As technology continues to evolve and create new forms of abundance, it is crucial that we do not lose sight of these fundamental human qualities. The challenge will be to harness the power of technology while preserving the essence of what makes us human—our ability to connect deeply, to care for one another, and to build communities that are rich not just in resources, but in relationships.

In a future where technology can provide for many of our material needs, it will be our humanity that sets us apart. It is not just the ability to think or create that makes us human, but our capacity for empathy, our drive to form meaningful connections, and our commitment to caring for others. These are the qualities that will ensure that even in a world of technological abundance, we remain deeply connected to one another, and to the values that define our shared human experience.

As we move forward, it is this vision of humanity that I look toward—a world where technology enhances our lives, but where the core of our humanity remains unchanged. Where every advancement brings us closer not just in terms of connectivity, but in our understanding and appreciation of what it truly means to be human.

 

Preparing for the Future

For a long time, we lived in the era of "Know-How." Those who knew how to do things, how to make things happen, were highly valued. People invested significant time and effort in developing their own expertise, mastering skills that set them apart. Possessing this "know-how" was the key to success, driving innovation and progress.

Then came the age of Google, which marked the end of "Know-How" as the primary currency of knowledge. This ushered in the era of "Know-Where." Suddenly, it wasn't just about knowing how to do something; it was about knowing where to find the information you needed. With just the right keywords, the vast knowledge of the world was at your fingertips. Expertise became democratized, as people from all over the globe shared their insights online, leading to the rapid development and refinement of better methods and techniques.

Now, AI has brought about the end of the "Know-Where" era, giving rise to a new age: the era of "Know-Why." In this new era, it’s no longer enough to simply know where to find information. You must understand the context, the reasoning, and the purpose behind your inquiries. AI has advanced to the point where it can provide not just answers, but deep insights, as long as you provide the right context and articulate the underlying purpose of your questions.

In the end, 'Know-How' gave us the tools, 'Know-Where' gave us the access, but 'Know-Why' will give us the direction. It is this understanding that will empower us to navigate the complex landscape ahead, ensuring that the technologies we create serve to enhance human life, rather than diminish it. As we move forward, it is imperative that we carry this wisdom with us, shaping a future where technology and humanity coexist harmoniously, with purpose and meaning at the core of our endeavors.

As we prepare for the future, it’s clear that the focus is shifting from simply possessing knowledge or knowing where to find it, to understanding the "why" behind our actions. In this era of "Know-Why," success will depend on our ability to contextualize information, to think critically about the reasons behind our decisions, and to use AI not just as a tool for finding answers, but as a partner in exploring and understanding the deeper questions that drive us forward.