A Better Way to Think About AI

In general, an AI tool is either designed for automation or collaboration.

Automation tools function independently and don’t require oversight, entirely replacing humans within the scope of their functioning. Examples include ATMs, dishwashers, and automatic transmissions in automobiles. Collaboration tools can’t function independently of human users — whether a collaboration tool functions well or badly depends on the expertise of the human involved. Examples include chainsaws, stethoscopes, and word processors. Some systems combine automation and collaboration tools. For example, car transmissions might be fully automatic, but the safety system might operate collaboratively.

Automation overreach can cause harm.

Automation tools may be able to perform specific tasks as well, if not better, than human experts. However, they are only effective solutions when they can complete a given task without...