COMMUNITY concerns are rising about artificial intelligence (AI) affecting critical thinking and dumbing down society.
Prominent Gold Coast entrepreneur Melinda Richards – author of the thought-provoking book, ‘You Can’t Say That! – The demise of free thought in Australia’, said AI was making people mindless and is concerned about what’s in store for future generations.
“Kids are turning into mindless people,” Mrs Richards said.
“We’re losing our humanity by losing our critical thinking and relying too much on technology.”
She said AI had led some people to rely too heavily on automation, thereby diminishing their capacity for independent thought and critical analysis.
Deeply concerned about the potential for technological advancements to foster laziness and hinder free expression, she is passionate about helping the world go from woke to being awake and encouraging people to speak up.
“The purpose of ‘You Can’t Say That!’ is to encourage discussion and debate in the current stifling politically correct environment, as well as providing a platform for those fighting to gain back their basic rights for freedom of speech,” she said.
A University of Queensland graduate with a career spanning over 30 years, she has worked in the UK, USA and Australia for ASX listed companies in logistics, shipping and property development and government owned corporations, as well as in state and local government. She now runs her own group with interests in real estate, service industry and the agricultural sector.
Concerned about identity politics and the erosion of free speech in mainstream media and social platforms, she wants to foster a culture of intellectual curiosity and encourage discussion about complex issues, rather than passively accepting pre-packaged solutions offered by AI algorithms and the mainstream media.
“We need to speak openly and honestly, even in the face of censorship and ideological conformity,” she said.
“Freedom of speech is the cornerstone of a healthy democracy. Yet, in an era dominated by identity politics and algorithmic censorship, many people feel stifled and afraid to express their opinions. It’s imperative that we empower people to find their voice again and engage in robust, respectful discussion.”
She hopes ‘You Can’t Say That’ will empower people to speak up and have meaningful conversations about the intersection of technology, society and individual autonomy.
‘You Can’t Say That’ is available at www.melindarichards.com
