In the backdrop of the changing face of technology, Ramdas Shenoy speaks to Kate O’Neill, founder & Chief Tech Humanist, KO Insights| host, The Tech Humanist Show, professional speaker on the future of human experience in a world driven by emerging tech and other change at scale, author of ‘A Future So Bright’, Tech Humanist, Pixels and Place
What is Tech Humanist? What does it signify? Why do you call yourself one?
Tech Humanist is a term I coined to reflect the need to have technological innovation intersect with human values. Since technology scales through business interests, Tech Humanism seeks to align business objectives with human outcomes. It looks at technology-mediated experiences as both a risk and an incredible opportunity to align with and enhance our human experience. I call myself a Tech Humanist because I strongly advocate for the ethical and mindful use of technology to create positive outcomes for individuals and society as a whole.
With AI and ML, how fearful is the future going to be? Is it going to be the most dominating technology– will it make the human race irrelevant?
One way to answer this is to ask, how relevant are we now? We are relevant to ourselves. We are relevant, at least in this time horizon, to the earth, the planet where we originated and whose environment we have modified with our technological developments.
We are important to ourselves, of course, and for our own sake we should take a human-experience-centric view of what AI and ML can do for us. The key lies in how we shape and guide the development and use of these technologies. It is crucial that we prioritize human well-being and ensure that AI is aligned with our values.
The real threat is not from AI itself, but from misuse, and from business and economic models that don’t center human well-being and ecological harmony, and which don’t place value on sustaining nature and naturally-occurring resources.
How is UX different from HX(Human Experience), in terms of technology interface?
UX, or User Experience, focuses on the usability and satisfaction of individuals interacting with a specific technology interface. On the other hand, HX, or Human Experience, takes a broader view and considers the holistic impact of technology on human lives, relationships, and society as a whole. While UX concentrates on the immediate user interactions, HX encompasses the emotional, social, and ethical dimensions of the human experience with technology.
In a country like India, which is still at the cusp of development from developing to developed, what are the challenges you foresee with regards to new age technologies?
As India transitions into a more developed state, there will be challenges in adopting and adapting to new age technologies. These challenges may include issues of accessibility, digital literacy, infrastructure, and socioeconomic disparities. It is important to address these challenges through inclusive and responsible technological development, ensuring that the benefits of new age technologies reach all segments of society.
How is leadership going to be in the new world? How is it going to be redefined in the new world order?
In the new world, leadership will be redefined to encompass a more holistic and inclusive approach. Leaders will need to navigate the complexities of a rapidly evolving technological landscape while considering the impact on individuals, communities, and the environment. Leadership will require a deep understanding of human values, empathy, and the ability to foster collaboration across diverse perspectives. It will involve embracing ethical decision-making and prioritizing long-term sustainability and human well-being.
How can data and emerging technology be used to improve human experience at a global level?
Data and emerging technologies have the potential to greatly enhance human experience at a global level. By harnessing the power of data, we can gain valuable insights into social, economic, and environmental challenges. With the right ethical framework and responsible use, emerging technologies can help address these challenges, improve access to essential services, empower marginalized communities, and enable sustainable development. It is crucial to ensure that data-driven solutions prioritize privacy, security, and the equitable distribution of benefits.
How would you define Kate as a person in this technology world?
I would say, “Kate is a passionate advocate for the ethical and human-centered use of technology. She is dedicated to fostering a future where technology serves humanity and supports sustainable and inclusive growth.”