April’s topical focus for futurists in the media was artificial intelligence (AI) and the implications of replacing jobs with capable technologies. Preparing for new jobs that accompany the implementation of AI is a major concern. Also, we have seen a spike of coverage of futurists concerning AI in medicine, economics, education, and politics.
Several pieces urge caution when confronting the future of technology and AI implementation. A key issue is AI/machines becoming smarter than man, passing the Turing Test, and, perhaps, making humans obsolete.
The coverage of futurists in April was greater than typical and it also ranged across a broad of spectrum, such as Amy Webb, Jamie Metzl, and Keith Suter – not just the usual suspects. That said, Ray Kurzweil still held a high percentage, covering his thoughts on the future spread of basic income by 2030 (see economics). If April is an indicator, futurists are gaining recognition and being introduced to the public more frequently. — Stephen Layman