Experts Warn AI Could Erode Essential Human Skills by 2035, Urge Regulatory Action
April 2, 2025
A new report titled 'The Future of Being Human' reveals significant concerns among 301 tech experts regarding the impact of AI on human capabilities over the next decade.
Futurist John M. Stuart warns that while a small segment of the population may benefit from AI, the majority could lose essential skills to primitive AI systems, resulting in a challenging adaptation period.
Experts from Elon University caution that AI could undermine vital human skills such as empathy and deep thinking, predicting negative effects on social and emotional intelligence.
The report suggests that as AI becomes more integrated into daily life, people may increasingly rely on AI personas for emotional support, leading to what is termed emotional outsourcing.
Tracey Follows and other experts emphasize the importance of preserving authentic human relationships, warning that AI's integration could overshadow genuine connections.
The authors of the report stress the necessity for intentional actions to navigate the challenges posed by AI, advocating for regulatory measures to prevent an undesirable future.
Regulatory frameworks and digital literacy are highlighted as critical components to ensure that AI enhances rather than diminishes the human experience in the coming years.
Tech leaders envision a future where AI agents manage numerous tasks, raising concerns about human dependency on technology that could fail.
Experts predict that by 2035, reliance on AI could lead to declines in 12 essential human traits, including emotional intelligence and moral judgment, potentially exacerbating societal inequalities.
Survey results indicate that 23% of respondents foresee predominantly negative effects of AI on social skills and critical thinking, while only 16% anticipate mainly positive changes.
Vint Cerf, a co-founder of the internet, warns that distinguishing between artificial and real personalities may become increasingly difficult, highlighting the need for proof of humanity.
Notably, the report's analysis was conducted without the use of large language models, with 223 out of 301 respondents providing original insights without AI assistance.
Summary based on 3 sources
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Sources

The Center Square • Apr 2, 2025
Analysis: 'Valley' of AI journey risks human foundational, unique traits
ABC17NEWS • Apr 2, 2025
The ‘father of the internet’ and hundreds of tech experts worry we’ll rely on AI too much