Can AI Remind Us That Connection Is What We’re Searching For?
Editorials and Columns
When I mention that I’m a writer, the talk quickly shifts to artificial intelligence. The question is always the same: will AI replace journalists and take over writing everything from newspapers to books? My answer is no—and here’s why.
AI is a helpful tool. For instance, I use AI-driven apps to transcribe interviews for my columns. They aren’t perfect and require careful review, but they save time. Even as AI improves, it won’t replace the heart of storytelling. Storytelling depends on connection, empathy, and learning—qualities only humans bring fully to the table.
Consider this: a human shows up at the scene of a disaster to capture stories of loss and resilience. A human thoughtfully interviews a scientist to turn complex research into relatable narratives. A human holds space for trauma and honors lived experience with emotional intelligence. Vulnerable storytelling reflects our shared humanity, something AI cannot truly replicate.
Humans are wired for connection and belonging. A robot taking notes can’t empathize with survivors during hard times the way another human can. It’s people standing together, facing life’s challenges, who understand what our experiences mean for humanity. While AI in a humanlike robot might assist in disaster response someday, the stories belong to us. Stories provide context, healing, and community solidarity.
Social media has been a rough test for digital connection. It often fails to hold real space. We scroll through feeds, dropping quick reactions—sad faces, care emojis, laughing faces—within seconds. These aren’t true signs of empathy but often performative gestures. Social media tends to fuel quick outrage and immature responses rather than genuine connection. Even aware of this, many of us find ourselves engaging less with it.
My hope is that society will move beyond the noise and return to authentic, in-person conversations that foster real community. Clickbait AI content, designed to profit by exploiting biases, chips away at any chance for meaningful connection online. In Facebook groups, for example, some share AI-generated images or exaggerated stories to spark debates. These attempts at deception usually get called out because most people crave authenticity and honesty.
Maybe it’s best to treat AI as a tool to boost productivity, while leaving storytelling and journalism to humans. These uniquely human skills require empathy, insight, and ethical responsibility. If we accept that, then humanity has a better chance to thrive.
Do you know anyone using their skills to make the world better? Feel free to share stories or connect through email.
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