Elon University Report: AI Impact on Human Skills and Identity by 2035

A recent report from Elon University's Imagining the Digital Future Center reveals concerns about the impact of artificial intelligence on essential human skills. The report, "Being Human in 2035: How Are We Changing in the Age of AI?," features essays from 200 experts. It highlights a fear that increasing AI integration could lead to a decline in agency, creativity, and decision-making abilities for most people. According to the report, 61% of respondents believe that AI will bring considerable or dramatic changes to people's native operating systems by 2035. While some anticipate positive impacts on curiosity, learning, and problem-solving, the analysis predicts negative changes in areas like social and emotional intelligence, empathy, mental well-being, and sense of identity. Futurists like Paul Saffo envision trillion-dollar corporations operating entirely through AI, while Vint Cerf suggests the possibility of difficulty distinguishing between artificial and real personalities. The study, conducted between December 27 and February 1, emphasizes the need for intentional and careful consideration of AI's development to avoid unintended consequences for humanity.