Blog Post #10 Age of Ai

    

    The PBS documentary In the Age of AI offers a fascinating deep dive into the growing impact of artificial intelligence, particularly when it comes to job automation and privacy. One of the biggest takeaways is that AI isn’t a future concept, it is here and now; constantly transforming industries and reshaping the job market. While many people assume AI-driven automation is still years away, the reality is that machines are already have been replacing human workers. From robotic factory employees to self-checkout stations, businesses are cutting labor costs by relying on technology. In an economy where many are already struggling, the idea that “the rich get richer and the poor get poorer” feels more relevant than ever. AI has rid corporations of hundreds of jobs and our leaving less for the working class.

    But job loss isn’t the only issue. The documentary also highlights how AI is shaping privacy. Massive tech companies now use AI-driven data collection to track user behavior, serving up targeted ads and curated content. I mean, how often have you talked about a product out loud and then suddenly have a pop-up add for something just like it on social media. Personally, this happens to me an uncomfortable amount. While this might make scrolling more “personalized,” it also raises ethical red flags. Companies like Google have been collecting data since the early 2000s, but AI has made it easier than ever to monitor, analyze, and even predict human behavior. Governments and advocacy groups are pushing for more regulations, but big tech isn’t backing down, arguing that AI-driven personalization ultimately benefits consumers.

    Beyond automation and data tracking, In the Age of AI also explores the sheer power of artificial intelligence. A great example is Google’s AI system mastering the game of Go. Experts initially believed human intuition and strategy would win—but AI proved them wrong. This moment wasn’t just a win for technology; it was a wake-up call. AI isn’t just learning from us—it’s surpassing us in ways we never thought possible. And with AI already making strides in fields like education, medicine, and business, the question becomes: how far will it go?

    The documentary doesn’t just focus on the negatives. It also highlights the benefits AI brings to various industries. In education, AI helps students refine their research and writing. In healthcare, it assists in early disease detection and drug development. It’s even improving accessibility for people with disabilities. 

    At its core, In the Age of AI paints a picture of a world that’s evolving faster than we ever imagined. AI is transforming how we work, communicate, and interact with the world around us. The challenge is finding a way to embrace innovation without sacrificing jobs, privacy, or ethics. While no one can predict exactly where AI will take us, one thing is clear: we’re already living in a new era, and how we navigate it will shape the future for generations to come.