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Futurist Gerd Leonhard spoke at the Digital Agenda Cyprus Summit 2025 about the human-centered, positive approach needed for the development of artificial intelligence.
“We must not rely on AI cognitively, because if we stop thinking, we will kill democracy,” he said.
Many jobs will be replaced by artificial intelligence, especially those based on routine tasks, Gerd Leonhard stated at the Digital Agenda Cyprus Summit 2025. He analyzed the risks AI poses when in the wrong hands, noting that recent developments show various attempts to synthetically replace humans.
People need to embrace technology, but they must also resist its dangerous forms by setting clear boundaries.
“We cannot allow machines to believe they have consciousness.”
He suggests that we pursue the magic of technology, prevent mania, and prohibit the toxicity propagated by companies such as Meta. Regarding companies, Leonhard argues that they must commit to more ethical practices that include humans rather than exclude them.
“Let’s not repeat the mistakes made in the oil industry as we move forward with the development of artificial intelligence,” he said.
He also emphasized that we should not rely on AI cognitively, warning that if we stop thinking, democracy will be destroyed.
“We must develop a mindset for the future. It is our choice whether we have a bad or good future, so we must make smart decisions.”
