Gregory Robinson, a business philosophy and ethics author, spoke in the Robinson Teaching Theater on Nov. 6 about the potential economic impact of AI with an overall message of “reasonable hope.”  

As part of the Call & Character Speaker Series, Robinson’s event titled “AI, Virtue, and the Good Life” showed both potential positive and negative impacts to allow room for the complexity of this new form of technology. 

Robinson began by defining humanity, explaining that humans are animals who are capable of abstract reasoning. He pointed out our differences from animals, saying, “We’re closer cousins to angels than to chimpanzees.” 

While Robinson didn’t define AI in the traditional sense, he discussed the current uses and where it’s headed. Using examples of chatbots, complex weapon systems and self-driving cars. He emphasized how there isn’t one way to put this form of technology into a solid definition. 

Although, because of the human virtue of abstract rationality, Robinson explained how AI cannot function in a humanly manner despite its complexity that’s similar to our own. He brought up how relying on technology for a job that requires more nuanced thinking, like emotional support or therapy, can have life-threatening dangers.  

On the other hand, it could be used as a more neutral medium for decision-making. Despite issues of individual and social complexity that have, according to Robinson, historically prevented different socioeconomic systems from working. Robinson said that, with AI, central and more socialist planning might be achievable.

“AI might, I think, give rise to a bottom-up revolution in commercial society,” Robinson said. 

Robinson then spoke about big businesses gaining profit from AI. According to Robinson, executives promise to maximize profits; thus, they will lean into the AI revolution due to the moral and legal obligations they have to their shareholders and employees. 

“I was really hoping to… talk more about, like, outsourcing of creativity… and anti-intellectualism,” said Hannah Wynne, a student who attended the event, “He brought up a couple of really good points.” 

Many students had questions following the lecture, primarily focused on getting a straight answer about whether AI will have positive or negative impacts overall.  

Robinson responded with a greyer answer. With a quote from an AI chatbot, he concluded: “… AI is not destiny – it is a mirror. It reflects and amplifies the intentions of the humans who design, deploy and regulate it.”