The 11th Nishan Forum on World Civilizations in Qufu, Eastern China's Shandong Province, brought together over 560 guests from more than 70 countries and regions to dive into one of today’s hottest topics: the impact of AI on human civilization. 🤖
At the heart of the discussions were questions about how artificial intelligence is reshaping sectors like healthcare, education, and climate science while also challenging the very fabric of our cultural and creative identity.
Experts from around the globe, including Professor Xiang from Xidian University and Professor Edwin Etieyibo of the University of Witwatersrand, offered contrasting yet complementary views. They framed AI as an extension of humanity’s long tradition of tool-making and knowledge sharing that has defined our cultural evolution.
Professor Xiang cautioned against over-reliance on AI—especially in education—warning that excessive dependency might erode students' capacity for critical thinking. Meanwhile, Professor Etieyibo highlighted the risk of losing distinct human qualities such as creativity, moral reasoning, and empathy, noting that a future blurred by AI-generated content could drastically affect our ability to discern what’s real.
Both scholars stressed the urgent need for robust, global ethical frameworks that ensure inclusivity and counteract digital marginalization. Their shared call to support regions like Africa in participating fully in AI development underscores a broader vision: a future where technology serves as a tool for empowerment without compromising our human essence.
This engaging dialogue at the Nishan Forum reminds us that while AI is a powerful force of innovation, maintaining a balance with cultural authenticity and human creativity remains essential for a thriving civilization. Stay tuned as more thinkers explore this electrifying frontier! 🌟
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
