The relationship between AI and the human brain

Back in the day, when sci-fi films were first released, people were awed by the strange technologies and robots depicted by filmmakers. Today, however, those ideas aren’t far-fetched at all. The processes and behaviours of bots, ChatGPT and AI diagnostics are rapidly becoming more life-like — seeming to emulate and, in some cases, surpass the human brain’s capabilities.

Ironically, while AI tools are created to work more quickly and accurately than human brains, their inner workings draw a lot of inspiration from neuroscience. In fact, when you think about AI models, algorithms, architectures and functions, you’ll notice a striking similarity to the human brain and its neural networks.

New knowledge about the brain

In the past, it was believed that the brain you are born with is the one you die with.

But we’ve since learned that your brain is not hard-wired and your genes don’t solely dictate your thoughts, emotions and behaviour. In fact, your experiences modify your brain throughout your life, and it is constantly changing and rewiring itself according to how you train yourself to think, feel and behave.

This is called “Neuroplasticity”. Your genes map your potential and vulnerabilities, but you have complete control over your thoughts, feelings and behaviour. In essence, you’re able to turn nature versus nurture into “nurturing nature”.Tying back to AI, just like a computer scientist can change and modify artificial networks and behaviours, you can do the same with your brain.

A model, not a recreation

It’s important to mention that, while artificial neural networks operate similarly to biological networks, AI is only a model of it — not a recreation. Unlike the brain, AI and machine learning are based on floating-point numbers and formats, while the human brain works through pulses.

Still, AI models have similar processes to actual brain neurons. The difference, however, is that AI and machine learning don’t have different “areas” with separate functions. They are mixed and can perform actions without switching to other modes.

If you try to remember what you had for breakfast this morning, for example, you don’t need to do a Google search because your brain automatically remembers what it was and how it tasted. ChatGPT works in the same way, retrieving information automatically based on prompts.

So AI is based on the brain?

The short answer? No. To illustrate, there’s a big difference between online study and a university campus. Campuses have other people, human interaction, school spirit, sports and events. In contrast, online facilities may have an occasional virtual lecture, but the relationship and connection are primarily between you, your self-discipline and the computer screen.

The human brain has something AI and machine learning can never mimic: consciousness.

Yes, neural networks work similarly, but AI can’t offer personability, warmth, and experiences in the ways that humans can. (Not yet, anyway.)

Here’s my take on this

Imagine having a Baymax from the Disney film Big Hero 6, who can analyse your emotions, neurobiology and biological data. Wouldn’t that make your life so much easier? Perhaps Baymax is something you can expect from the future. But for now, you can leverage AI and machine learning to do automatable tasks for you, while using your intuition, knowledge, wisdom and consciousness to guide and support others.

Thoughtfully designed technology can enhance the coaching experience, but human connection is still essential to meaningful growth and establishing a sense of belonging and value.

The best part? While computer scientists work to enhance AI and machine learning capabilities, you can continue training your brain to maximise your potential and learning from your vulnerabilities.

These are incredible times in which technological innovation can perform specific tasks quicker and more efficiently than humans. I don’t know about you, but I think now is the perfect opportunity to truly explore what your mind is capable of.

About the author

I’m Dorothée Oung, Global Director at the Neuro Change Institute®️, Neuroleader Expert, and Coach to leading practitioners, motivational speakers, trainers, facilitators, coaches, and fellow leaders. My mission is to guide soon-to-be Neuroleaders through deliberate practices to achieve their professional goals.