The emergence of sophisticated new artificial intelligence (AI) programs capable of performing a growing number of human tasks has many asking: will AI replace me someday?

After interviewing several human experts about the possibility of AI replacing human work and talent on a large scale, CTVNews.ca posed some of the same questions to ChatGPT.

ChatGPT is an AI chatbot developed by OpenAI and launched in November 2022. It is capable of answering a wide range of questions, but, like a human, ChatGPT is not perfect. For example, when asked to write the introduction for this story, it delivered an error message instead. It was able to provide insight into the relationship between AI and human work, though.

Below is a transcript of the interview, which has been edited minimally for style.

Note: Unlike other sources, such as journal articles, ChatGPT does not provide references with its answers. However, ChatGPT’s answers were consistent with what human experts we interviewed said.

Q: What type of work does AI excel at?

ChatGPT: Artificial intelligence is capable of performing a variety of tasks, but it is particularly well-suited for certain types of jobs and applications. Here are some of the most common areas where AI excels:

Data analysis: AI algorithms can quickly process vast amounts of data and identify patterns and insights that would be difficult for humans to find.

Image and speech recognition: AI algorithms can be trained to recognize and classify images, speech, and other audio and visual data with high accuracy.

Customer service: AI-powered chatbots can handle simple customer service inquiries, freeing up human agents to handle more complex issues.

Fraud detection: AI algorithms can be trained to identify fraudulent transactions and patterns in financial data that would be difficult for humans to detect.

Predictive maintenance: AI algorithms can analyze data from equipment sensors to predict when maintenance will be needed, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.

Personalization: AI algorithms can analyze data about users’ behaviours, preferences, and demographics to provide highly personalized recommendations and experiences.

Automated translation: AI algorithms can translate text from one language to another, making communication and collaboration easier for people who speak different languages.

It’s worth noting that AI systems are still limited in their abilities and can sometimes make mistakes. Therefore, in many cases, human oversight and input are still required to ensure that AI systems are used effectively and ethically.

Q: Will AI replace humans in some industries?

ChatGPT: Yes, it is possible that AI could replace humans in some industries, particularly for tasks that are repetitive, dangerous, or require a high degree of precision.

However, it is unlikely that AI will replace humans completely in most industries, as many tasks still require human creativity, critical thinking, and empathy.

For example, in manufacturing, AI-powered robots are increasingly being used to perform tasks such as assembly, painting, and welding. In customer service, AI-powered chatbots can handle simple inquiries, but more complex issues still require human intervention. In the financial industry, AI algorithms can help detect fraud, but human analysts are still needed to interpret the results and make decisions.

Overall, it’s likely that AI will change the nature of work in many industries, rather than replace human workers completely. As AI becomes more advanced, it’s likely that humans will be freed up from performing repetitive and manual tasks and will instead focus on higher-level, creative, and strategic work.

Q: What will happen to humans who are replaced by AI?

ChatGPT: The impact of AI on human workers will depend on several factors, including the speed at which AI technology advances, the types of jobs that are impacted, and the availability of alternative employment opportunities.

In some cases, workers who are displaced by AI may be able to find new jobs in related fields that require different skills. For example, as AI takes over routine tasks, workers may be needed to manage and oversee AI systems, train them, and ensure that they are used ethically and effectively.

In other cases, workers who are displaced by AI may need to acquire new skills and transition to different industries. This could be particularly challenging for workers who have spent many years in a single industry and may not have the skills or experience needed to transition to a new field.

To mitigate the negative impact of AI on human workers, it may be necessary for governments, businesses, and educational institutions to invest in retraining programs and other initiatives that help workers acquire new skills and transition to new careers.

It’s important to note that the development and deployment of AI should be guided by ethical considerations and a commitment to ensuring that AI benefits all members of society, including workers who are impacted by this technology.

Q: How can humans avoid being made obsolete by AI?

ChatGPT: Here are some steps that individuals can take to avoid being made obsolete by AI:

Upskill and reskill: Continuously updating your skills and knowledge can help you stay relevant in an ever-changing job market. Consider taking courses and pursuing certifications in areas such as data analysis, machine learning, and software development.

Embrace technology: Familiarize yourself with the latest technology and tools, including AI, and actively seek out opportunities to use them. This will help you develop the technical skills that are in demand and understand how AI is changing the nature of work.

Develop soft skills: Soft skills, such as communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and problem solving, are difficult to automate and will likely become even more valuable as AI becomes more prevalent in the workplace.

Build a diverse skill set: Having a wide range of skills and experiences can help you be more adaptable to change and better equipped to handle new challenges.

Seek out new opportunities: Be proactive about seeking out new opportunities for learning and growth, and be open to changing careers if necessary.

Network and build relationships: Building relationships and networking can help you stay informed about emerging trends and new opportunities in your industry.

It’s important to remember that while AI may automate some jobs, it is also creating new job opportunities and industries that did not exist before. By being proactive and investing in your own development, you can position yourself to take advantage of these new opportunities and thrive in the age of AI.