The History of AI Disruption and How Music Can Help

History of AI Disruption

It might seem as if artificial intelligence is suddenly taking over the job market without any warning. However, AI actually has a long history, dating back to Alan Turing's 1950 paper "Computing Machinery and Intelligence," which introduced the Turing Test, a method for evaluating a machine's ability to exhibit human-level intelligence through conversation. His work led to Turing being dubbed the "father of AI" and spurred further research in the field.

Perhaps the most notable event Turing inspired was the 1956 Dartmouth Summer Research Project on Artificial Intelligence, which brought together top researchers to discuss creating machines to mimic human intelligence. The leader of the workshop, Professor John McCarthy, coined the term “Artificial Intelligence.” The event marked the beginning of AI as a research discipline.

Late 20th and early 21st century AI advancements included the shift to machine learning in the 1980s and ‘90s, enabling pattern recognition from data. The 2005-2017 "big data revolution," with its massive datasets, enhanced AI training and analysis capabilities. During this period, deep learning, using layered algorithms and artificial neural networks mimicking the human brain, was also implemented.

In 2011, the virtual assistant “Siri” was introduced with the iPhone 4S,

providing the public with an easy-to-use AI tool. In 2020, OpenAI released GPT-3. Today, tools like Chat GPT and Google Gemini are widely used daily, and are even replacing human workers in certain professions.

By 2030, Goldman Sachs projects AI could displace 300 million full-time jobs globally. McKinsey Global Institute estimates that 14% of workers may need to switch careers due to AI and robotics. A University of Pennsylvania and OpenAI study suggests white-collar jobs are most vulnerable to AI replacement. But these conservative projections may underestimate AI's rapid advancement. The actual impact of AI on every field is likely going to be much greater.

How Music Training Can Help

Although these predictions may seem bleak, there are ways that you can make yourself an invaluable in your field. The most important distinguishing factor is human creativity, which AI has a very limited ability to mimic.

The best way to develop your creative abilities is through music training on an acoustic instrument. The combination of engaging the senses, motor skills, and emotion makes this activity a uniquely robust way to improve your creativity and cognitive abilities through forging strong neural pathways. The cognitive skills gained by playing an acoustic instrument will aid your professional endeavors and translate directly into the ability to think innovatively in academic and occupational settings. 

Learn more about how music training can set you up for professional success in the age of AI by enhancing your cognitive abilities at: MusicNeurohack.com