Artificial intelligence is designed to assist with decision-making when the data, parameters, and variables involved are beyond human comprehension. For the most part, AI systems make the right decisions given the constraints. However, AI notoriously fails in capturing or responding to intangible human factors that go into real-life decision-making — the ethical, moral, and other human considerations that guide the course of business, life, and society at large.
AI Isn’t Ready to Make Unsupervised Decisions
Today’s algorithms still largely lack empathy, ethics, and the ability to see the bigger picture.
September 15, 2022
HBR Staff; Pexels; seamartini/Getty Images
Summary.
AI has progressed to compete with the best of the human brain in many areas, often with stunning accuracy, quality, and speed. But can AI introduce the more subjective experiences, feelings, and empathy that makes our world a better place to live and work, without cold, calculating judgment? Hopefully, but that remains to be seen. The bottom line is, AI is based on algorithms that responds to models and data, and often misses the big picture and most times can’t analyze the decision with reasoning behind it. It isn’t ready to assume human qualities that emphasize empathy, ethics, and morality.
New!
HBR Learning
Decision Making Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Decision Making. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Practical ways to improve your decision-making process.
Learn More & See All Courses
New!
HBR Learning
HBR Learning
Decision Making Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Decision Making. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Practical ways to improve your decision-making process.