The tragedy of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is that it is treated as a gold rush — a way to get rich quickly. The real treasure of AI, however, lies in using AI to extend our senses, to make us all smarter and the world safer, healthier, and more connected. Imagine a society where “superhuman perception” isn’t hoarded for profit, but rather shared for the common good.
I recently binge‑watched several Jesse Stone movies starring Tom Selleck. One of the most memorable characters in that series isn’t human at all — it’s Reggie, the Labrador Jesse finds at a crime scene and quietly adopts. Reggie is enigmatic: his previous owner was killed, and he was found lingering beside the body, carrying a sadness that never quite lifts. He isn’t the typical fun‑loving Labrador we expect. Jesse often wonders what’s going through Reggie’s mind, and I did, too.
This is where AI could open extraordinary doors. AI could help us glimpse the inner world of dogs like Reggie — their grief, loyalty, or quiet resilience. Understanding animals at that level wouldn’t just be fascinating; it would deepen our empathy and remind us of our shared vulnerability. AI, incorporated with certain animal senses, which are far superior to our own five senses, would also have amazing benefits.
AI‑powered “electronic noses” can detect cancer from a patient’s breath, sniff out explosives, and monitor food safety. Algorithms can process ultrasonic frequencies, giving drones and sensors bat‑like echolocation for navigation and search‑and‑rescue. AI cameras see in infrared and ultraviolet, spotting crop pests or hidden defects invisible to human eyes. Neuromorphic tactile sensors mimic whiskers, allowing robots to delicately handle surgery tools or navigate rubble. Machine learning is currently decoding animal signals — from whale songs to bee dances — opening new channels of ecological cooperation. Each of these breakthroughs shows how AI can help us borrow nature’s best tricks, not to dominate, but to collaborate.
Animals have been perfecting their senses for millions of years. AI gives us a chance to learn from them, not just to mimic, but to surpass. If we choose to use it to aim higher than greed, that would truly be batshit amazing. It would give us something this Thanksgiving Day to make us truly thankful for the vast number of species who share the planet with us, not just the turkeys.
Peace & Love, and all of the above.
Earl
earlthepearl137 