

Is AI Sparking a New Renaissance? 19 Keys on Tech, Cognition & the Future
Jul 6, 2025
Futurist 19 Keys, known for his insights on preparing for the future, discusses the transformative impact of AI on cognition and society. He argues we're entering a cognitive renaissance where critical thinking will be more valuable than ever. With AI taking over mundane tasks, human creativity can flourish, but he warns of the technology's dual nature—its potential for empowerment versus manipulation, especially in vulnerable communities. Keys emphasizes the need for cognitive security to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
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AI as the New Internet
- AI is becoming as indispensable as the internet, deeply integrated into daily life and the economy.
- It democratizes computer science by enabling 7 billion people to use AI without coding skills, reshaping what it means to be human.
Cognitive Surplus Sparks Renaissance
- The rise of AI creates a 'cognitive surplus' by automating routine tasks, freeing human minds for deeper thinking.
- This surplus can spark a new cognitive renaissance, where thinking itself becomes the ultimate skill.
AI's Double-Edged Cognitive Impact
- AI is a double-edged sword, capable of empowering or manipulating populations, especially vulnerable ones.
- Cognitive security and mental discipline are vital to protect against AI-driven psychological warfare and misinformation.