Artificial intelligence (AI) can provide answers even late at night. It analyzes medical records, reviews contracts, and writes text. While daily life has become more convenient, the distance between people has not necessarily decreased. Despite having many names in their contacts, finding someone to confide in remains a challenge.
Kim Soo-yoon's new book, 'Humanity in the Age of AI' (Doodream Media), questions what tasks can only humans perform in a world where machines are gradually taking over human capabilities.
The author, a music educator who has taught at art schools and universities for over 40 years after studying flute in Switzerland and Germany, emphasizes the importance of meeting people and listening to their stories rather than prioritizing theory. These are aspects that everyone acknowledges as important but often neglect in their busy lives.
The book features 19 individuals from various professions and generations, including quantum physicists, doctors, lawyers, businesspeople, artists, AI experts, and homemakers. Their stories are presented through over 40 essays and interviews divided into five sections, focusing more on diverse life experiences than on a single conclusion.
At the heart of the book is the 'Suhouse Cultural Salon' run by the author. Kim has transformed the kitchen into a gathering space by expanding the living room. According to the publisher, over 700 people aged 20 to 70 have visited since the house concert began in 2024. Among the 110 members are professors, doctors, and business leaders.
Suhouse exemplifies the humanity discussed in the book. For the author, Suhouse represents not just a physical home but any space where people open their doors to share their hearts. Humanity is found not in special abilities or achievements but in taking the time to listen to others and in the gathering of people from different walks of life to share thoughts.
However, the book does not advocate distancing oneself from AI. The author advises using AI as a tool but warns against following its answers blindly. Accepting answers without question leads to dependence on technology; instead, one should broaden their inquiries through mathematics, science, philosophy, and history to validate these answers in their own lives.
There is also a notion that AI can serve as a tool for self-understanding. The author suggests that by expressing difficult thoughts to AI, individuals can gain new perspectives and discover aspects of themselves they were previously unaware of.
Nevertheless, no matter how sophisticated AI's responses may be, spending time with others and building relationships is a different experience altogether. The interactions fostered at Suhouse illustrate this difference. Humanity is not solely defined by knowledge or skills but grows through the process of forming relationships and understanding each other's differences.
The author does not stop at discussing humanity; they have actively created spaces for people to meet. This connection of familiar themes to real-life spaces is a strength of the book.
Relationships are not always warm. People can hurt each other, and expectations can lead to disappointment. The author writes that seeing different perspectives is not wrong. When people with differing views come together, they can see a broader world. The book posits that nurturing one's inner self and forming flexible relationships are essential for achieving humanity.
The author hopes that Suhouse will not remain confined to their home. They wish for such spaces to emerge in the homes and lives of readers. In an era where consulting AI has become routine, the book encourages opening the door to people first.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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