How has AI evolved since the 1980s? This Ohio State alum says all it comes down to language.

How has AI evolved since the 1980s? This Ohio State alum says all it comes down to language.

How has AI evolved since the 1980s? This Ohio State alum says all it comes down to language.

https://www.wosu.org/2026-02-17/how-has-ai-evolved-since-the-1980s-this-ohio-state-alum-says-all-it-comes-down-to-language

Publish Date: 2026-02-17 05:00:00

Source Domain: www.wosu.org

  • Early AI Enthusiasm: Dean Allemang began studying AI in the 1980s with the aim to enhance human intelligence and assist all professions, but became disillusioned as AI did not deliver these early goals.

  • Role of the Internet: According to Allemang, the internet fulfilled the original vision of AI by making vast information accessible, ultimately surpassing initial AI expectations.

  • Modern Generative AI: Allemang sees modern generative AI, especially language models, as a new development tapping into previously unexplored areas, potentially leading to discussions about artificial general intelligence.

  • Environmental Concerns: Allemang addresses the environmental impact of AI, conducting an experiment to show that the power consumption of generative AI is minimal in comparison to everyday household tasks.

  • Future of AI: Allemang expresses optimism and concern over the future of AI, suggesting it could either advance human civilization or lead to a science-fiction scenario where computers overshadow human concerns.