Why Artificial Intelligence Does Not Eliminate Excellence
The article discusses concerns that the rise of artificial intelligence may lead to a dilution of individual excellence by making advanced skills accessible to everyone.
The article draws a parallel between a quote from a character in the animated film "The Incredibles" and the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), warning that if everyone can become 'super,' then no one will truly stand out. It explains how the villain in the film seeks to equalize all superpowers, turning them from rare gifts into commodities, thereby erasing individual uniqueness. This thought experiment from the film is presented as increasingly relevant in today's world.
Two decades later, the concerns expressed in the film script are becoming a reality, as AI tools are granting millions access to capabilities that previously required years of training, such as writing, data analysis, design, programming, and research. While this democratization of skills may seem beneficial—implying that 'everyone is becoming more capable'—the author suggests a deeper concern that the proliferation of AI could lead to a homogenization of talent.
The article implies that rather than enhancing individual excellence, the widespread availability of AI could standardize skills and diminish the value of human creativity and unique capabilities. It raises important questions about the future of work, identity, and what it means to excel in an era where advanced tools are available to everyone, highlighting the potential societal implications of this shift in capabilities.