Jesse Hirsh: Using automation to build community, not write sci-fi

Jesse Hirsh is described as both a futurist and an agitator. So, it is no surprise he sees artificial intelligence (AI) as not only transformative for municipalities, but also as a tool to create change and drive communities forward.

Speaking with Municipal World CEO Susan Gardner at the 2019 Ontario Municipal Administrators’ Association (OMAA) Spring Workshop at Niagara-on-the-Lake, Hirsch was quick to add the future he sees relies on an increased role for human oversight and not some doomsday scenario crafted by a Hollywood screenwriter.

“I think it is important to see AI as a tool, to really not make the mistake of mythologizing it, or glorifying it, and that prevents us from understanding it,” he said. “Science fiction, Hollywood has certainly given us lots of grand tales about AI, but it is important we see for the tool it is, and further, that we use it critically, responsibly.”

Debunking the Myths of AI

In delivering the conference’s opening keynote address, Hirsh looked to “debunk” the myths surrounding AI. The biggest myth, he said, is that AI is smart and will someday reach consciousness, perhaps even becoming smarter than human beings.

Hirsh reiterated his views in his chat with Gardner. He added that conclusion is so much “nonsense,” particularly if one looks at the current research. Al does a lot of things that humans can’t, Hirsch said. However, it will never achieve consciousness and will always “need adult supervision.”

Automation Leads to Constant Learning

Automation offers tremendous potential, Hirsh said, but it won’t offer the ability to abdicate personal responsibility.

There is another myth Hirsch said people like to believe, that AI will create massive unemployment. Hirsch said all the research around automation shows that, in fact, that is far from the reality.

“What it does is it changes our jobs,” he said. “In particular, it puts a lot of emphasis on learning.”  MW

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