Use it or lose it!

AI (Artificial Intelligence) is the future — a super tool in the hands of the many, even if few understand how it works.

The line between ethical and unethical use of AI is poorly defined because the technology is still so new. So where should we draw that line?

Let’s take a look at its uses. AI is a tool that can predict. It listens to your input, processes what you want, and guesses what you wish to hear. So, I’ll ask you this: Is it responsible to ask for a prediction that you cannot confirm?

I believe the answer is no. Let’s consider some real-world examples. New university students across the globe are beginning their academic careers with a powerful tool — one that can write essays in seconds, provide information, generate code, create images, design presentations, and so much more. With just a simple prompt, so much of their work can be completed.

But if that’s the case, when do they actually need to work?
How many corners can you cut before you lose sight of the big picture?

One of the most important skills that college and university teaches is how to work — how to be disciplined. Unlike in high school, students are not handheld through classes. No one reminds you about homework, checks in on you, or takes attendance regularly. In higher education, you’re expected to act like an adult and get your work done. No one is forcing you to be there.

But with AI in the picture, how can someone truly learn to work hard when it’s so much easier to just run everything through an algorithm? Whether it’s summarizing documents to read faster or generating code for an assignment, it becomes a dangerous path to go down. Just imagine a surgeon who earned their degree by depending heavily on AI.

AI, if used in excess, will slowly erode our critical thinking skills.

I’m not saying people shouldn’t use AI at all — but it is each person’s responsibility not to let it replace their ability to think critically. If you are going to generate something with AI, it’s important to have the skill and know-how to correct it if needed.