In a compelling keynote address, Thierry Geerts, former CEO of Google Belgium and current CEO of BECI, shared his thoughts on the transformative power of digitalization and artificial intelligence in our society. Drawing on his book “Homo Digitalis,” Geerts presents a vision where technology doesn’t make us less human—it strengthens our humanity.
The Power of Interconnection
Today, we live in an unprecedented era of connectivity, with five billion people interconnected globally. The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the power of this digital interconnectedness, enabling us to maintain relationships and accelerate scientific collaboration. This global cooperation has led to the rapid development of vaccines, illustrating how digital connectivity can propel human achievement.
From Smartphones to AI: The Latest Revolution
While the smartphone represented a revolutionary moment in 2010 by putting encyclopedias, cameras, books, and maps in our pockets, artificial intelligence marks what Geerts calls the fourth industrial revolution. This evolution follows a clear progression:
- First Revolution: Coal-fired steam engines
- Second Revolution: Oil-Powered Electricity
- Third Revolution: Oil-Powered Computers
- Fourth Revolution: Data-Powered AI
The Impact on Employment
Contrary to the alarming headlines, Geerts presents a more nuanced view of AI’s impact on employment:
- Only 7% of jobs are likely to be completely replaced by AI
- 64% of jobs will be transformed rather than eliminated
- AI will automate routine tasks, allowing professionals to focus on higher-value work
For example, accountants who previously spent half their time on data entry can now focus on providing strategic advice, with AI handling routine coding tasks.
The Three Major Roles of AI
Artificial Intelligence is called upon to transform society through three main functions:
- Complex Problem Solving – From distinguishing between cats and dogs to detecting previously imperceptible breast cancer markers, AI’s pattern recognition capabilities can address both everyday and critical challenges.
- Life Simplification – AI makes everyday tasks more efficient with text and image translation, email composition, and advanced video search based on content rather than metadata.
- Business Transformation – Businesses are leveraging AI through:
- Digital twins and data lakes for improved analytics
- AI-powered robots for automated inventory management
- Smart data center management for energy efficiency
The Reality of Generative AI
Although generative AI like ChatGPT has garnered considerable attention, Geerts advocates a measured approach. He points out that these tools:
- Are based on existing technologies (similar to those used in Google Translate since 2006).
- Function as statistical tools rather than truly understanding systems.
- Require human verification and supervision.
- Need to be evaluated over a longer period to measure their true impact.
Future Prospects
The future of AI promises exciting developments:
- Augmented generation by retrieval will improve the reliability of responses.
- Belgium could see a 9% increase in GDP from the creation of AI-related jobs.
- The emergence of “ Homo Digitalis ” – humans augmented not by implants, but by enhanced human-machine collaboration
Essential Considerations
As we embrace this technological evolution, Geerts highlights key points to consider:
- Security Awareness – The dual-use nature of AI requires vigilant cybersecurity measures.
- Competitive Advantage – Organizations must keep pace with AI adoption to remain competitive.
- Critical Thinking – Remember that AI is still a tool – a tool that can make mistakes and requires human supervision.
Conclusion
Geerts concludes with an encouraging message: rather than fearing AI technology, we should embrace the opportunity to learn and master these new tools. The future belongs to those who can collaborate effectively with AI while maintaining human judgment and creativity.
The transition to Homo Digitalis does not represent a departure from our humanity, but rather a strengthening of our capacities through a thoughtful integration of digital tools and human intelligence.
