How the New Technological Flame Can Illuminate or Scorch Our Future
The Myth of Prometheus and Its Parallel with AI
In Greek mythology, Prometheus steals fire — a symbol of knowledge and power — to give it to humanity. This act transformed our history: it allowed us to heat homes, cook food, develop civilization, and expand our intellectual capabilities.
However, fire also holds danger. Misused, it can destroy. This is why history reminds us that every advance carries responsibility.
Similarly, artificial intelligence (AI) emerges as a force that marks a “before” and “after”:
- It processes data quickly and accurately.
- It raises ethical challenges around autonomy and human oversight.
- It impacts sectors such as medicine, education, and industry.
The New Promethean Flame
The arrival of AI recalls the moment when fire first entered human life. It is a tool capable of transforming societies, but also of amplifying risks if not managed properly.
The challenge today is to learn how to ignite and guide this new flame with wisdom, ensuring its light serves the common good rather than destructive interests.
Ethics and Prudence in the Use of AI
Ethical vigilance is key to ensuring that AI remains an ally, not a threat.
Ethical perspective
- The Vatican, in Antiqua et nova, states that AI should complement human intelligence, not replace it.
- Pope Francis warns that AI must not decide over life and death.
Business perspective
- Satya Nadella (Microsoft) asserts that privacy is a human right and that people should control their own data.
- Example: N5 proposes a model in which humans act as “commanders” of intelligent artificial assistants, guiding technology toward the common good.
Leading AI with a Human Vision
If in prehistory fire sparked the flame of civilization, today AI can ignite a new dawn. But everything will depend on who leads it and with what values.
The leaders of this era — our “technological commanders” — must act with ethics, reason, heart, and spirit, ensuring that the flame of AI serves the common good and remains under human control.
Conclusion
Artificial intelligence is our flame today. It can illuminate a fairer future or turn into a blaze that consumes our certainties. The outcome will depend on our ability to lead it with prudence, ethics, and long-term vision.
