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Podcast
35 minutes
Mar 13, 2025

Podcast


AAB

The Case for Artificial Useful Intelligence (AUI) over AGI

In this episode of the Everyday AI podcast, host Jordan Wilson speaks with computer scientist Ruchir Puri about why the pursuit of artificial useful intelligence (AUI) may be more important for businesses and individuals than chasing artificial general intelligence (AGI).

Artificial Intelligence Business Strategy Artificial Useful Intelligence AI Agents AI Workforce Reskilling

Takeaways

  • Intelligence should be understood as a blend of IQ, emotional intelligence (EQ), and relational intelligence (RQ), not just raw IQ.
  • Businesses should focus on AI's utility in solving real-world problems rather than obsessing over achieving AGI.
  • AI agents that self-correct and use external tools represent a profound next step in AI evolution.
  • Business leaders must actively engage with AI technologies to form educated strategies for disruption and reconstruction.

Summary

Artificial Useful Intelligence (AUI) should be prioritized over Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) because usefulness directly impacts business and personal growth. Intelligence is multi-dimensional, comprising IQ, EQ, and RQ, and technologies that assist daily activities are more beneficial than those chasing abstract AGI ideals. Rusheer Piri recounts historical milestones such as IBM’s Deep Blue and Watson to illustrate the shifting nature of AI milestones, emphasizing that real impact lies in practical application.

Modern AI advances, especially reasoning-enabled and agentic models, shift AI systems from simple input-output mechanisms to autonomous agents capable of iterative problem-solving and tool usage. This transition mirrors historical shifts like the Industrial Revolution’s automation of manual labor. In today's context, AI augments knowledge work rather than replacing it, creating new productivity channels.

Businesses must have three critical approaches: leaders should gain hands-on familiarity with AI, develop strategic plans addressing both disruption and reconstruction, and prioritize reskilling teams to operate effectively alongside new AI tools. Future organizational structures will center around humans managing digital agents, reinforcing the enduring need for strong emotional and relational skills alongside technical know-how.

Job Profiles

Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Data Analyst Artificial Intelligence Engineer Machine Learning Engineer Academic/Researcher

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AAB
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