Can AI Make Us More Human? A Social Psychologist and a Business Leader Answer

Written by Andrei Costea on August 10, 2026. Posted in Multimedia

Artificial intelligence is often framed as something that will either replace human abilities or revolutionize them. 

In this TED conversation, social psychologist Heidi Grant and NiCE CX Division president Barry Cooper take a more balanced view. Rather than focusing on what AI might take away, they explore how it can strengthen the skills that matter most, from communication and decision-making to continuous learning. Their discussion suggests that AI’s greatest potential lies not in doing the work for people, but in helping them improve how they think and grow.

A major theme throughout the conversation is the importance of maintaining a growth mindset. As technology continues to reshape the workplace, adapting to change and learning new skills may become more valuable than any single area of expertise. 

The speakers highlight how AI can support that process via the following: 

• Delivering more consistent feedback
• Providing personalized assistance 
• Creating safe environments where people can practice difficult conversations 
• Generating the medium through which new abilities can be attained without the pressure of being judged by colleagues or managers
• Building confidence and expertise rather than simply boosting productivity

The discussion also emphasizes that getting the most out of AI depends on how it is used (duh!). Asking thoughtful questions, challenging assumptions, posing inferences, and treating AI as a partner in problem-solving can lead to better decisions and deeper understanding. 

Yet even with all that, it is important to keep in mind that the technology is far from perfect. It can generate inaccurate information or reinforce existing biases if its responses aren’t carefully evaluated. That makes critical thinking and human oversight just as important as ever, even as AI becomes more capable.

Beyond professional life, the conversation explores how AI could help people develop healthier habits and make better everyday choices. Instead of encouraging distractions, future AI systems could provide timely reminders to take breaks, manage screen time, track chores, or stay focused on personal goals. 

Tags: AI and productivity, AI in the workplace, artificial intelligence, continuous learning, critical thinking, Decision making, growth mindset, human skills, human-AI collaboration, workplace learning