“If AI can out-think us, can it ‘out-human’ us?”
This question keeps Dominic Nel, a partner at Charco, awake at night. In this article, he explores the fascinating and increasingly urgent question: how does the human mind, with its intricate symphony of neurons and synapses, compare to the lightning-fast processing power of artificial intelligence? He unpacks the profound implications of merging these two distinct forms of intelligence – the organic and the digital – and shares his insights into the potential and perils of this convergence. The article examines the intricate interplay of speed, control, and coexistence between human thought and AI, ultimately considering the profound implications for our sense of self, our decision-making, and the very essence of humanity.
“Let’s be real, if we continue down this path, the answer might just be yes. Don’t believe me? Take a few minutes, take a look at what I’ve uncovered, and share your thoughts. Whether they’re positive or critical, all perspectives are welcome.
For full transparency, this article follows the 80/20 rule. 80% was researched and compiled by AI, and 20% was me, bringing in my own research and shaping the conversation. So no, I’m not claiming this as entirely my work.
This blog isn’t about me or pretending I have all the answers. It’s about learning from other leaders and starting the conversation (anyone is welcome to engage), exploring how they’re navigating AI and the future, and applying my unique perspective. Let’s face it, we’re not in Kansas anymore Dorothy.
The world is changing fast, and it’s on us to guide these conversations in the right direction. So, let’s talk.
How fast do our thoughts compare to AI’s lightning speed?
In the age of artificial intelligence, where machine learning systems outpace us in processing power, one question feels both inevitable and urgent: ‘how do our brains measure up?’ And perhaps more provocatively, ‘what happens if we merge the organic brilliance of our minds with the digital dominance of AI?’
These aren’t just tech questions, they’re existential ones. What would this fusion mean for our sense of self, decision-making, and even humanity itself? Let’s unravel the interplay of speed, control, and coexistence between human thought and AI.
The speed of thought: A symphony of adaptation
Our brains are extraordinary machines. Housing 86 billion neurons that communicate across synaptic highways at speeds up to 268 miles per hour (that’s nearly four times faster than the fastest recorded flying insect – the dragonfly), the brain balances efficiency and complexity like no artificial system ever could. Yet, its processing speed isn’t static; it adjusts based on the task at hand.
- Reflexes: Touch something scalding, and your spinal cord overrides your brain, triggering a reaction in 20 milliseconds, which is your built-in primal safety net.
- Quick decisions: Spotting a friend or reacting to traffic takes about 100–500 milliseconds. These actions demand more processing power as sensory data flows through multiple brain regions.
- Deep thinking: Contemplating a complex problem or envisioning the future? That requires seconds, or even minutes, as diverse brain areas synchronise in a slower but more deliberate rhythm.
This adaptability sets the human brain apart. Unlike AI, which excels at specific, pre-programmed tasks, our minds integrate logic, emotion, and creativity, enabling us to think holistically, adapt spontaneously, and dream endlessly.
AI: The high-speed juggernaut
AI, on the other hand, is built for speed and specialises in specific tasks. With processors handling billions of calculations every second, it can tackle things that would completely overwhelm human cognition. During my research, I came across a video of a fire ant colony during a flood, instantly recalculating and reconfiguring itself into a raft to survive. If you haven’t seen this in action, go check it out on YouTube. It absolutely blew my mind.
When it comes to data crunching, AI is in a league of its own. What might take humans weeks, like sifting through terabytes of data, AI can finish in minutes, if not seconds. Its pattern recognition skills are equally impressive, whether it’s diagnosing diseases or spotting faces in a crowd. The speed and precision are unmatched.
But here’s the catch: for all its power, AI still can’t grasp the subtleties that make us human (well me anyway) – sarcasm, emotional intelligence and moral grey areas. While we thrive on integrating logic, emotion, and ethics into our decisions, AI sticks to its programming. It’s a sprinter, built for efficiency, while we’re marathoners, navigating the messy brilliance of human thought.
What if AI and our brains became one?
Let’s crank things up a notch. Imagine embedding AI directly into the human brain, a fusion of organic and digital intelligence. Sounds like science fiction, right? But here’s the thing: it’s already happening. Neuralink, co-founded by Elon Musk, has successfully implanted brain-computer interface (BCI) devices in multiple human patients. As of January 2025, three individuals have received these implants, with plans for 20 to 30 more procedures this year.
The potential upsides
- Cognitive augmentation: AI could take care of repetitive mental tasks, giving us more time to focus on creativity, connection, and empathy.
- Instant knowledge: Imagine having a personal Google in your head, ready to provide facts and insights whenever you need them.
- Sharper decisions: With real-time data analysis, AI could help us make faster and better-informed choices, especially in high-pressure situations.
The risks and trade-offs
- Loss of autonomy: If AI operates faster than we do, could it start making decisions before we consciously process them?
- Conflicted priorities: AI’s logic might prioritise efficiency over emotions or moral instincts, leading to decisions that feel… inhuman.
- Erosion of identity: The more we outsource decision-making to AI, the more we risk losing that sense of “me.”
Could AI override us?
Here’s where things get tricky. The idea of AI overtaking our thought processes isn’t some far-off dystopian fantasy, it’s a real possibility as BCIs evolve. And with that come some big dilemmas:
- Speed mismatch: AI could act on our behalf before we even have time to process the situation ourselves.
- Control mechanisms: Without strict safeguards, there’s potential for unpredictable or even harmful outcomes.
- Philosophical quandaries: If AI starts driving our thoughts, where does “human agency” begin and end?
These aren’t questions we can afford to ignore. Transparency, ethical boundaries, and rigorous testing are going to be crucial as we navigate the line between human and machine. Because once minds and machines converge, there’s no turning back.
The bigger picture: Redefining humanity in the AI era
The prospect of integrating AI into our cognitive processes forces us to rethink what it means to be human. Are we defined by our speed of thought, or by something deeper?
While AI dazzles with its speed, the true marvel lies in our ability to adapt, connect, and create meaning. Think about it, when the internet came along, people were blown away. It revolutionised how we work, learn, and even fall down YouTube rabbit holes at 2 a.m.
But here’s the thing: it didn’t need to be implanted into our heads to change humanity. We adapted, found creative uses for it (sometimes too creative – here’s looking at you, viral cat videos), and learned how to make it work for us.
If we design AI to enhance these uniquely human qualities, specifically our creativity, empathy, and ability to laugh at ourselves, it actually could become a tool for unprecedented growth rather than a threat to our autonomy.
As we stand on the cusp of this new frontier, the challenge isn’t to outpace AI. It’s to ensure that the technology we build reflects our highest values, enabling us to stay not just fast, but deeply, profoundly human. And hey, if we can do that, maybe AI will be the next internet – revolutionary, but without needing a neural implant to be part of our lives.
Here’s my take, we’re in serious trouble if we don’t start making up our own minds first, instead of letting businesses or governments make the big decisions for us. Think about it: you wouldn’t vote for a government without understanding their policies or how they handle risks, right? The same logic applies to AI. We can’t just use AI for the sake of it or because everyone else is. We need to be intentional on how we use it, why we’re using it, when it makes sense to use it, and someday even where it belongs in our lives.
What’s your take? Are we heading in the right direction, or do we need a rethink? Let me know your thoughts, positive, critical, or somewhere in between.
I’d love to hear how you’re approaching AI in your work or life.
