The launch of DeepSeek's open-source AI model marks a significant milestone in the evolution of artificial intelligence, lowering the barriers to entry and reducing the costs associated with AI development. As AI continues to integrate into various aspects of daily life and the labor market, its role within human society is set to expand exponentially.
Socialization, the process through which individuals adapt to societal norms and values, has long been influenced by technological advancements. Since the advent of the internet, cyberspace has emerged as an additional realm for socialization, complementing traditional environments like family, school, and the workplace. Mobile internet, in particular, has transformed lifestyles and interaction patterns, allowing individuals of all ages to engage in virtual spaces where social roles and cultural norms are navigated and internalized.
With the rise of AI, questions arise about whether we are embarking on a completely new socialization process akin to our transition into the internet age. Two primary questions emerge: How should individuals adapt to an AI-driven society? And how can AI facilitate socialization?
To adapt to the AI era, it is essential for individuals to embrace and utilize AI technologies actively. Understanding the new rules of the AI landscape and enhancing personal initiative are crucial steps, similar to the initial adoption of the internet. This proactive approach ensures that individuals remain engaged and empowered in an AI-integrated world.
On the other hand, AI can play a pivotal role in facilitating socialization. Taking large language models (LLMs) as an example, institutions can develop tailored question lists for different age groups. Young people might use AI to explore topics such as coping with failure, improving relationships with parents, or avoiding inferiority complexes. This guided interaction with AI can foster self-reflection and personal growth, enhancing the socialization process.
However, the increasing prevalence of AI technologies, such as AI teachers, playmates, and companions, raises concerns about the potential for human beings to become more individualized and atomized. Professor Zheng Yongnian from the Chinese University of Hong Kong (Shenzhen) highlighted that while humans have an innate desire for communication and socialization, the trend towards AI-mediated interactions might lead to a decline in direct human contact. This shift could result in individuals becoming more self-centered, relying heavily on AI-powered social media for their social needs.
As societies navigate the integration of AI into daily life, it is imperative to balance the benefits of technological advancements with the preservation of human values. Ensuring that AI promotes fairness, justice, and human welfare without diminishing human value remains a critical challenge. DeepSeek's initiative, along with thoughtful analysis from experts like Li Mingling, underscores the importance of guiding AI development in a direction that supports meaningful socialization and societal well-being.
