Human Power

The rapid and tumultuous technological transformation of our societies has triggered a self-exploratory public debate about what it means to be human. What are our human potential, talents, and powers - what, essentially, is our place in the modern world?

Will a culture of machines out-compete a culture of humanity?

In this thought-provoking but ultimately hopeful book, scholar and leading technology critic Gry Hasselbalch invites readers to reflect on the shifting dynamics between humans and the AI-powered technologies increasingly shaping our world. Exploring the distinctiveness of human power, the book addresses current debates about technology that portray humans as powerless and flawed - in essence outdated software in dire need of a technological fix - arguing that human power must remain central in discussions about AI and technology. It investigates seven key traits which set humans apart from machines: Creativity, Intuition, Emotion, Life, Defiance, Love, and Wisdom. Drawing on interviews and examples from across arts - including literature, visual arts, film and music - and from technology politics and policymaking, Human Power explains how these traits provide a foundation for a new politics in the AI Machine Age. One that does not diminish and reduce human power, but actively protects and reinforces it.

If human power is not a computational process, then what is it? Human Power: Seven Traits for the Politics of the AI Machine Age gives human power - our humanity and fundamental "humanness" - a renewed voice in a debate dominated by fears and preconceptions about technological power. This important new work will appeal to journalists, policymakers, artists, and educators--and anyone else interested in the rapidly growing role of AI and digital technology in our lives.