“I don’t trust them”: Growing fear over AI’s impact on jobs and intelligence

Experts are raising alarms over the potential dangers of artificial intelligence, warning that excessive dependence on AI could erode human creativity, innovation, and critical thinking. The concerns come as AI tools rapidly integrate into workplaces, schools, and daily routines, sparking fears about job security and long-term societal impacts. World news correspondent Adam Gilchrist shared anecdotes from his son in the film and TV industry, who says AI is already disrupting careers by generating images, scripts, and video content. The head of the Royal Museums Greenwich and the Royal Observatory in the UK cautioned that overusing AI for instant answers could stifle independent thought, potentially making humans 'less intelligent.' Public frustration is growing, with references to a former Google CEO being booed during a University of Arizona graduation speech amid backlash over AI’s role in job displacement. Creative industries, including film and television, are among the hardest hit, as AI tools automate tasks traditionally handled by humans. Gilchrist admitted personal skepticism toward AI, choosing to limit its use in his own life. The fears echo historical concerns about technologies like television and computers, but AI’s rapid advancement and automation risks set it apart. Despite the warnings, comparisons are drawn to past technological shifts, where new tools faced skepticism over their impact on intelligence. However, the speed of AI’s evolution and its potential to replace human labor make current concerns distinct. Presenters like Bongani Bingwa expressed outright distrust, stating, 'I don’t trust them for a second,' reflecting a broader unease about AI’s unchecked influence.