KARACHI:
As we enter the third decade of the 21st century, humanity faces various issues and multiple perplexing questions. According to world-renowned historian Noah Harari, humanity today faces three main existential challenges — nuclear wars, ecological collapse and technological disruption. The threat of nuclear war and an unfolding ecological disaster are already familiar and known across the globe; therefore, it is important to talk more about technological disruption.
Technology is no doubt the harbinger of modern life. However, regardless of its many benefits, not many are aware that it can simultaneously pose a huge threat to our species. In the 19th century, the countries that were the first to industrialise, like Britain and Japan, went on to conquer and exploit most of the world. If we are not careful the same thing will happen in the 21st century vis a vis Artificial intelligence. We are already in the midst of an AI arms race, with China and the US as frontrunners. Unless we take immediate action to distribute the benefits and power of AI, those in power of technology will continue to exploit countries that are less technologically advanced. The former will also generate immense wealth in turn exacerbating the global problem of inequality.
Only through mutual understanding and unity can we tackle these existential threats posed to our species. Undermining global cooperation will prove to be detrimental.
Hidayat Khan
Islamabad
Published in The Express Tribune, January 12th, 2021.
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