When Will AI Be Capable of Asking Better Questions Than Humans?

The question of whether artificial intelligence (AI) will be able to produce better questions than humans has been a topic of much discourse. However, the reality is that until such a capability is economically viable, AI is unlikely to venture into this territory.

The Economics of Innovation

When it becomes economically viable to do so. This is akin to AI having emotions – there is no tangible economic benefit to be gained from it. Without a clear financial incentive, there is little reason for tech companies to invest heavily in this area. For instance, the cost of running supercomputers is prohibitive. How are we supposed to justify the expenditure of millions of dollars on computational power when the primary goal is to create more sophisticated questions?

Following the Lead of Business

Following the lead of business. The business model for innovation often focuses on identifying and solving problems that offer a clear return on investment. It is much easier to point out problems than it is to explain and measure successes. For example, why has it been so challenging to explain the success of Steve Jobs and the iPhone? The business world thrives on identifying and addressing market needs that align with economic benefits. Until a similar economic benefit is identified for improving the quality of questions asked by AI, we can expect the status quo to continue.

Addressing Real Problems First

So we have good questions. One fundamental question is why, despite producing more than enough food for the entire human population, billions still go hungry and suffer from malnutrition. This raises a crucial question: Should we be focusing on making AI better at asking questions, or should we first address these pressing real-world issues?

While improving the quality of questions is undoubtedly important, it is equally crucial that we channel our efforts and resources into solving the world's most pressing problems, such as hunger and malnutrition. The world is in dire need of action, and it is better to address these issues first before perhaps turning our attention to refining the mechanisms through which we ask questions.

Strengthening Our Problem-Solving Skills

Instead of investing more resources into making AI better at questioning, we should focus on enhancing our own problem-solving skills. This involves improving our ability to identify, analyze, and solve complex problems, as well as fostering a culture that values and rewards such efforts.

By focusing on the big picture and addressing real-world challenges, we can have a far greater impact on the world. Let's not get lost in the minutiae of technological advancements until they align with tangible, real-world benefits.

Conclusion

The pursuit of creating AI that can ask better questions is certainly an admirable goal, but it must be placed in the broader context of the world's challenges. Until we have a clear and significant economic incentive, it is more pressing to focus on solving real-world problems. By doing so, we can create a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.