Artificial Intelligence / Human Perception

“The world is full of magic things, patiently waiting for our senses to grow sharper.”
― W.B. Yeats

“All our knowledge begins with the senses.”
― Immanuel Kant

Beyond Knowledge

In our era of rapid technological evolution, Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands as a formidable presence. Beyond processing data, AI senses and comprehends the world, constantly advancing. So, what sets us apart as humans? How can we collaborate with these advancements?

Let me introduce the idea of “Perceptual Work,” a term I use to describe our distinct human ability to generate novel observations and solutions. It involves expanding perceptual skills, moving beyond knowledge-centricity to prioritize awareness through honing observation and inquiry skills.

In the AI-era, it’s not just about what we know; it’s about how we perceive, and this is crucial for our future.

Talk of bringing back “humanity” to the workplace is common but vague. Focusing on Perceptual Work allows us to pinpoint essential instincts and reclaim them. To make this shift, we must revive basic human skills lost in the industrialized workplace — deep listening, contemplation, and a stronger connection to our inner selves.

In this publication, we’ll highlight why expanding human capacities is vital for evolving alongside AI and offer tips for enhancing our perception.

AI Senses and Human Senses: A Closer Look

Artificial Intelligence is reshaping how we perceive and understand the world. Through machine learning, deep learning, and sensory data processing, AI systems learn, adapt, and make sense of their environment. Let’s explore the relationship between AI senses and human senses.

1. Perception of the Environment:

AI Senses: Employ sensors, cameras, and microphones, similar to human senses.
Human Senses: Utilize sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell to understand surroundings.

2. Learning and Adaptation:

AI Senses: Learn from vast datasets and adapt to incoming data, mirroring human learning and adaptation.
Human Senses: Our ability to learn and adapt is a fundamental aspect of human perception.

3. Neural Networks:

AI Senses: Mimic the neural networks of the human brain.
Human Senses: Process sensory input through intricate neural networks.

4. Understanding and Interpretation:

AI Senses: Interpret sensory data for decisions, mirroring human interpretation.
Human Senses: Actively interpret sensory information, drawing on past experiences to make meaning.

5. Active Exploration:

AI Senses: Passively collect data based on programming and sensors.
Human Senses: Actively explore surroundings, using senses to interact and shape understanding.

This comparison highlights similarities and distinctions between AI and human senses. While AI excels in data processing, it lacks the depth inherent in human perception. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as we navigate the evolving landscape of AI-human collaboration, and think forward to how we enhance our perception.

Human Perception is Dynamic

Renowned social psychologist Ellen Langer’s groundbreaking research emphasizes the power of perception to enhance our lives. One of Langer’s most notable contributions is her theory of mindlessness, which suggests that we often operate in a state of mental autopilot. We fail to pay attention to the subtle cues and nuances of our surroundings. This mindless state can lead to missed opportunities, poor decision-making, and a general sense of disengagement from life. She advocates for mindfulness practices. Mindfulness involves actively engaging with the present moment, breaking free from automatic routines.

Langer’s research underscores the power of perception in influencing our experiences. By actively shaping our perception through mindfulness and an open mindset, individuals can influence the way they interact with the world.

Neuroscientist Beau Lotto reveals that rather than being rigidly set, our perceptions are actively formed by the brain. Lotto’s research underscores the brain’s active interpretation of sensory data, integrating it with past experiences and expectations to craft our distinct worldview.

Lotto’s findings suggest that the brain is trainable, capable of adopting new perspectives on the world. By immersing ourselves in novel information and experiences, we have the potential to reshape our perceptions.

Enhancing Perception

As AI evolves, the need to expand our perception is clear. Our ability to sense, understand, and adapt distinguishes us — and the research shows we can enhance our perception. It’s not just about surviving; it’s about thriving. Traditional education focuses on knowledge, but the AI era demands expanding perception. Enhancing perception involves actively engaging and refining awareness.

Here are some practical tips to enhance your perception:

Curiosity and Open-mindedness:

Approach situations with curiosity and an open mind.
Practice active listening to sharpen auditory perception.

Sensory Training:

Engage in exercises to sharpen specific senses.
Stimulate multiple senses simultaneously for enriched experiences.

Exposure to New Experiences:

Actively seek diverse environments and stimuli.
Embrace novelty and change for enhanced adaptability.

Reflect on Experiences:

Consider how beliefs shape perception.
Foster self-awareness for conscious and intentional perception.

Cultivating enhanced perception offers benefits beyond sensory acuity — enhanced learning, heightened creativity, and deeper emotional connection.

Enhancing human perception is not just a personal journey; it’s a strategic imperative for thriving in a rapidly changing world. By actively embracing and cultivating Perceptual Work, we position ourselves for success in an AI-driven future, celebrating profound connections between the mind, body, and the world.

Ciela HartanovFebruary 14, 2024