We’ve seen it in movies, we’ve read about it in books, and we sure have listened to a lot of theories about it. This begs the question—will artificial intelligence replace humans? Probably the reason why this type of question was even thought of in the first place is due to the fear fostered in the minds of those who are concerned with the amount of emerging technology that’s more than capable of simulating what humans can do, sometimes even better. For instance, let’s not forget how AI steals off of real-life artists and creates its own “art.” So, does this imply that humanity as we know it is about to enter a future where robots and computers have developed into advanced beings with self-awareness and will eventually replace us? 

What is artificial intelligence?

Artificial intelligence is the imitation of human intelligence by machines through algorithms and data. AI is basically what makes our lives easier by doing what humans can do, and somehow even better. AI can also get better at the tasks it’s programmed to do over time. 

AI is the main branch of computer intelligence, which is further categorized into sub-groups. Deep learning and machine learning all fall under artificial intelligence. Machine learning refers to AI that’s able to execute tasks with minimal human interference. Machine learning learns through algorithms created by users, and the more data it’s fed, the better it can perform a task. 

Oftentimes, machines wired with machine learning no longer need to be reprogrammed. 

Deep learning, on the other hand, is quite complex compared to machine learning. In order to achieve high accuracy, this AI needs more time and data to train. Deep learning makes use of a neural network where data is passed through. This enables a machine to learn by processing its own data. 

In a way, neural networks allow machines to think and learn the way humans do. 

Is machine learning going to “steal” computer science jobs from humans?

No, machine learning isn’t going to take over computer science jobs. Jobs like software development, web development, data analysis, and computer hardware engineering are still going to need actual human beings to perform them. 

In all honesty, no amount of machine learning can ever replace computer science jobs. Computer science jobs are too complex for machines to be able to execute them with accuracy the way humans do. In fact, AI technology today isn’t all that advanced the way people perceive it to be. 

AI today hasn’t even reached a level of self-awareness that is considered complex, so how is machine learning going to take over computer science jobs that are just as complex? So there’s no need to worry about receiving a notice from your office saying that you’re about to be terminated because a machine is going to replace you at work. 

So, the things machine learning is most likely going to take over in the foreseeable future are some clerical jobs like data entry, proofreading, auto check-ins, and courier services. 

Will artificial intelligence replace humans in the foreseeable future?

Yes, artificial intelligence is going to replace humans in the future with regards to certain jobs. It’s just an inevitable event that humans have to face. However, it’s worth taking note of that there are two sides to a coin when it comes to this kind of question, so it’s best not to go into a downward spiral when one encounters a topic relating to artificial intelligence taking jobs from people. 

AI is going to take over and provide jobs for humans at the same time. How so? As AI advances, it’s going to need a lot of human brains to collaborate in order to create a more advanced AI. So job sectors that focus on robotics and software engineering are going to be a hotspot for job positions in the near future. 

But what about other job sectors, you may ask? The reality of it all is that there are jobs that artificial intelligence cannot simply carry out. Humans are complex beings that haven’t been successfully replicated to a T. There’s no robot or machine in existence that’s able to empathize with or understand human emotion to any extent. 

That being said, industries that involve teachers, therapists, lawyers, writers, social workers, medical professionals, and management professionals cannot be replaced by AI. 

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