TMTPOST -- With artificial intelligence (AI) getting increasingly integrated into daily life, it has brought both benefits and potential drawbacks, said He Jifeng, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and president of the Shanghai Academy of Artificial Intelligence Industrial Technology, in a speech delivered at the 2024 Bilibili Super Science Night.

In his speech titled "How Ordinary People Can Use AI Models", He outlined the development of AI since the concept emerged in 1956, tracing its phases from early growth, reflection, resurgence, and a post-AlphaGo era, where AI became a focus of public fascination.

With the rise of generative AI technology worldwide, many people are interested not only in the tools but also in how ordinary individuals can leverage large AI models to enhance personal and societal value. 

Studies indicate that around 80% of occupations involve at least one task exposed to AI, and 19% of people believe AI could handle more than half of their workload in fields such as marketing, software design, and music creation. AI, he noted, is gradually reshaping human roles across many professions. 

Rather than resisting the advancements of AI, He advocated embracing and adapting to them. He suggested lifelong learning to strengthen people’s expertise, apply AI to professional fields to improve productivity, and stay informed to keep pace with the rapid evolution of technology.

He highlighted the importance of expanding perspectives by connecting with others across different sectors, stressing that a collaborative approach can spark fresh insights. 

He, 71, is a renowned computer software expert. He has served as a professor, doctoral advisor, and was previously the dean of the Software School at East China Normal University. His international academic experience includes positions at the University of San Francisco, Oxford University, and the United Nations University Institute for Software Technology. He became an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences in 2005 and was awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of York in 2010. 

AI development, as he noted, has been groundbreaking. Yet security concerns persist, with most efforts focused on identifying rather than fully resolving issues.

He warned of privacy challenges unique to large models: training processes require vast amounts of user data, and personal information may be inadequately protected. In his view, alignment — ensuring AI systems uphold human values and safety standards — is critical to AI safety, comparing AI to Chinese literary character Monkey King, who needed a restraint to prevent mischief. He referenced the first law of robotics: robots must not harm humans or, by inaction, allow humans to come to harm.

He underscored the importance of remembering humanity’s role in AI’s future. “AI is our assistant, not a replacement for human-driven creativity and a better future,” he said, envisioning a future where AI contributes to a brighter world through responsible, human-centered progress.

In his talk, He covered three major AI-related topics: the history of AI, its impact on work and life, and the future of AI. He shared that while AI can significantly reduce time spent on routine tasks, professionals may focus more on higher-level problem-solving, creativity, and acquiring new skills. He suggested that the AI era will require skills such as critical thinking, creativity, and continuous learning — traits that could shape education’s future focus.

AI is also making progress in creative fields. Generative AI, powered by large models, is already revolutionizing music, video, and personalized content recommendations, offering new options for consumers. With AI tools making sophisticated music and video production more accessible, He explained that AI has entered the daily lives of ordinary people, enhancing convenience and smart home integration.

Looking ahead, He envisions AI as a transformative force in industries like healthcare, education, finance, and transportation, driving greater efficiency and service quality. As large language models evolve to tackle complex tasks and self-improve, He emphasized that people need to take a proactive approach. 

“Let’s embrace change with an open mind, and trust that AI will help us build a better tomorrow,” He concluded.