The Secret to Understanding AI

https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/2026/05/ai-for-good-uses/687082/

Publish Date: 2026-05-07 10:52:00

Here is a summary of the key points from the article in an unordered list:

• The article details how artificial intelligence went from obscurity to being a central topic in all aspects of society almost overnight after the release of chatbots like ChatGPT in late 2022.

• The hype around AI was intense and filled with both utopian promises as well asapocalyptic fears regarding its impact and applications.

• The author examines how AI has practically been applied to improve areas like healthcare, education, government services and human connections in meaningful ways beyond the initial chatbot excitement.

• He profiles some dedicated individuals and groups who are working with AI to fix problems in their fields instead of just focusing on profitability and disruption.

• The IRS is also using AI in incremental but useful ways to improve customer service while modernizing key systems in a cautious manner.

• The author warns that without thoughtful human guidance and oversight, AI risks being shaped more by those who seek disruption over those who seek to actually improve and “fix things” that matter to people.

• He argues the choice ahead is between AI designed with a focus on solving real problems or AI designed with a focus on disruption and maximizing profit. The outcome likely depends on which values we prioritize.