Research reveals the main potentials and fears about the use of Artificial Intelligence

The digital era has brought Artificial Intelligence (AI) to the forefront, transforming it into one of the most influential technologies in the daily life of companies, governments and people. However, how much we really understand your potential and the risks involved? A recent global survey conducted by The Cynefin Company reveals society's perceptions of the biggest benefits and concerns regarding the use of AI. 

The report “Perspectives on AI – Sensemaker Open Collection”, result of a global study conducted between September 2023 and February 2024, points out the five most promising areas, as well as the five major fears about the application of AI

Among the greatestpotentialidentified in the study, the power of AI stands out to:

1. Allow for in-depth investigations, that surpass the capabilities of traditional search engines
2. Fostering transdisciplinary skillswe humans, encouraging holistic development in response to global challenges
3. Identify patterns, helping to reveal valuable insights in large volumes of data
4. Eliminate human biases, using algorithms for more impartial and data-driven decisions
5. Support decision making, making people's lives healthier, productive and less stressful

On the other hand, thefearsthat surround AI are also significant. Among them, stand out, mainly

1. Abuses in the use of technology, where the human factor can be the weakest or most dangerous link
2. The decline of creative industries, with automation replacing human innovation
3. Manipulative propaganda, that can influence decisions in an extreme way
4. Hidden biased decisions, where the biases embedded in algorithms can cause significant harm
5. Risks to democracy and social stability, with the misuse of AI for political and manipulation purposes

In addition to these points, the research revealed other important considerations. AI has been seen as an ally in effective collaboration, in the promotion of creativity and in the distillation of large volumes of data. On the other hand, the misuse of technology, the inability to distinguish human work from automated work and the risk of digital exclusion are issues that raise concern

According to Alexander the Great, CEO of The Cynefin Co Brazil operation, the study reveals that many leaders still underestimate the true potential of AI. Leaders overestimate the ability to do better or faster what we already know how to do, using AI with focus, just, in productivity. They underestimate its transformative power, that can allow us to do things we never imagined doing before, comment Magno

Now, the company started this same study with a focus directed only at Brazilians. Those who wish to participate can access the link of the SenseMakerand fill out the form. The collected data will be compiled and presented every six months, creating, thus, a base rich in evolutionary and comparative levels

With this research, The Cynefin Co seeks to promote a deeper dialogue about the application of AI in different sectors, from the transformational impact on technology to its role in managing complexity in organizations and governments

The discussion about the balance between the benefits and risks of AI is increasingly necessary, as society navigates an era of unprecedented innovation.Most available research mainly listens to experts on the subject while ours opens up space for us to learn about how society is perceiving the advancement of technology, what is essential, finishes Alexander the Great