Like a good magic trick, new technology has the ability to put us in awe. To have us saying, “OMG! How’d they do that?!” It is even more awe-inspiring if the technology is taken for granted several years later.

This awe can be quickly replaced by dread. Again, if the technology has reached a level of capability, one can envision its role in society and wonder if that role will conflict with our own.

When this question is raised, the best we can hope for is when experts assure us that the technology will not replace us, but make our role easier, and make us more productive, perhaps even happier, particularly in areas where it has become more difficult to find human beings to fill these roles.

There are many examples of how this progression has happened with automation. Whether the transition was ultimately good, ultimately bad, or simply hasn’t been determined yet, the list of jobs impacted by automation includes bank tellers, longshoreman, assembly line workers, cashiers, and, if they ever deliver the drones and self-driving cars touted over the last few years, perhaps bus drivers and delivery persons as well.

For me, these questions have never been more close to home than in the last few months. You have no doubt heard of ChatGPT, or Google’s Bard, or one of the many artificial intelligence chatbots. These chatbots allow the user to simply type in a command to write something and spit out an essay, or even a poem.

For me, the progression started when the technology was profiled on an episode of 60 Minutes titled “Revolution” in mid-April. Much like Scott Pelley, I watched in amazement at how quickly, literally right before our eyes, Google’s Bard wrote an essay from nothing more than a one-sentence instruction.

My awe was quickly replaced by a desire to curl up in a ball on the floor. But next to come was a deep dive into these chatbots that led to misinformation, “hallucinations”, and references supposedly “made up” by the technology, as well as those defending the technology against these accusations.

More recently, the discussion has turned to these chatbots being used by students to cheat on exams and by others to simply game the current systems of society. Whether this is the middle or end of my progression, I thought the best and only thing I could do was try the technology.

Below is the result of asking ChatGPT to: “Write a 300 word essay on the dangers and benefits of artificial intelligence in manufacturing.” It took less than 10 seconds to produce. It is unedited and unadulterated. I’ll let you decide its accuracy and relevance.

Enjoy and thanks for reading!

Title: Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing: Balancing Dangers and Benefits

Introduction: Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized various industries, including manufacturing. The integration of AI in manufacturing processes has brought about numerous benefits, such as increased productivity, improved efficiency, and enhanced quality control. However, it is essential to acknowledge the potential dangers that accompany the rise of AI in this domain. This essay explores both the dangers and benefits of artificial intelligence in manufacturing.

Dangers of Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing: One significant concern is the potential displacement of human workers. As AI systems become more advanced, they can replace repetitive and mundane tasks, leading to job losses. Moreover, reliance on AI may result in a decline in the demand for low-skilled workers, exacerbating socioeconomic inequalities. Additionally, the complexity of AI systems may introduce vulnerabilities, making them susceptible to hacking and cyber threats. Malicious actors could exploit these vulnerabilities to compromise sensitive data or manipulate manufacturing processes, leading to financial losses and compromised product quality.

Benefits of Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing: Artificial intelligence has the potential to significantly improve manufacturing processes. AI-powered robots and machines can perform tasks with precision and consistency, resulting in increased productivity and reduced errors. The ability of AI systems to analyze vast amounts of data in real-time enables manufacturers to make data-driven decisions, optimizing production efficiency and minimizing waste. Predictive maintenance, another benefit of AI, allows manufacturers to identify and address machinery issues before they cause significant disruptions or breakdowns. This reduces downtime and increases overall equipment effectiveness.

Moreover, AI's role in quality control is invaluable. AI-powered vision systems can inspect products at high speeds, detecting defects that may be imperceptible to human eyes. This improves product quality and reduces the likelihood of defective products reaching the market. AI can also contribute to sustainable manufacturing practices by optimizing energy consumption, reducing waste, and supporting resource-efficient production processes.

Conclusion: Artificial intelligence presents both dangers and benefits in the manufacturing sector. While the displacement of human workers and potential vulnerabilities pose significant concerns, the benefits of AI cannot be ignored. By recognizing and addressing the dangers, such as retraining displaced workers and implementing robust cybersecurity measures, manufacturers can harness the advantages of AI while minimizing the risks. Striking a balance between human expertise and AI integration will be crucial to achieving a future where the manufacturing industry thrives with the support of advanced technologies.