Here’s the inevitable article about AI… it only took a few months. So much to say about the fantastic uses of Artificial Intelligence (AI). It was refreshing to host a podcast with the CEO of Solink, Mike Matta, and their in-house retail expert Cathy Langley recently where we talked about the ACTUAL uses for AI in the retail environment. It’s honestly been exhausting talking in the ethos about how AI will change loss prevention for the better.
BUT… call me old school if you want, and maybe I am… but I don’t believe (and will never believe) that AI will replace our good ole fashioned brains or gut. While we are definitely developing valuable ways to use AI, it won’t save you.
“No duh, Amber.”
My point is our brains are a collection of an estimated 86 billion neurons, intricately connected in a network, far more complex than the internet. Neurons pass messages like telephone wires, shooting electrical impulses at speeds up to 290 kilometers (180 miles) per hour (thank you Psychology Now for the stats). We’re still smarter than AI but my contention is, only if we continue to value learning and trust our own intuition.
If you’re counting on AI to be your sole brainiac partner, you might want to consider these reasons to take a step back:
- AI lacks human experiences, which are essential for deeper understanding.
- Critical thinking requires personal reflection, which AI cannot replicate.
- Creativity stems from human emotions and experiences, not algorithms.
- Emotional intelligence is vital for interpersonal relationships and cannot be mimicked by AI.
- Dependence on AI may lead to complacency in independent thought.
- AI systems can be biased based on their training data, impacting decision-making.
- Over-reliance on AI can create a digital divide, leaving some behind.
- Human judgment is essential for navigating moral and ethical dilemmas.
- Learning involves trial and error, which AI does not engage in like humans.
- The dynamic nature of human problem-solving is often context-dependent, something AI struggles with.
And these are just the reasons that AI came up with for not relying on AI.
Go figure.
Are you still learning?
What’s the latest book you’ve read (or listened to), conference or webinar you’ve attended? Podcast? I have some good recommendations. There are endless subjects that might just spark an idea for your most recent challenge that you’ve been stuck on for weeks. Let your brain take a break from your everyday routine. Research shows these are the moments that our brains are the most creative and can solve problems the fastest.
Honestly, the fact you’re receiving and reading the Retail Rundown means: you’re a pretty active learner! What about your team? Share the Rundown with them by forwarding and asking them to subscribe here. (self-serving plug done)
Researchers once thought that brain cell regeneration was impossible. Now we know that even in adults there are stem cells capable of creating new neurons. The more we stimulate our brain, the more neurons we create. How many neurons have you created this week?
Do you have a different take? Or more to add? Let us know by emailing Amber here. We’ll run your comments Monday’s Retail Rundown.
