AI, or Artificial Intelligence, is the buzzword of ‘Now’, the glittery zeitgeist companies are trying to sprinkle into every newsletter, department and investor meeting. But what actually is it and how is it understood? Very simply, AI is understanding developed in computer systems to execute tasks humans usually perform. In most cases, it involves the use of cognitive technologies designed to augment human intelligence through the ability to comprehend, reason, learn, and cooperate like we do. We’re surrounded by artificial intelligence in our smart devices. But with more interest in AI comes more misinformation as well. And many unfounded yet growing fears for the uncertain future.

A lot of people still react to the idea of AI with terror — truly believing that a cold, metal robot is coming to take their job and rule the world. With fear comes the fish tales and we have picked 5 of the most common to debunk:

FISH TALE 1: AI is a substitute for humanity

One of the most common AI related fears is that it is going to replace us and lead directly to mass job losses. However, the reality is so much further than the truth. The growth of computerisation in industries like production have created a palpable anxiety about how technology will limit human creativity and affect jobs. McKinsey’s recent research found that 45% of current jobs can be mechanised — a statistic that does little to calm people’s already growing anxieties. However, the reality is that most AI is developed to enhance the overall creativity of humans, working alongside us not instead of us. We need to reframe technology as an aid and not a substitution for human endeavour.

Fish Tale 2: All AI looks and acts human

There is nothing organic about Alexa and yet people often mistake her dulcet tones as an indication of human characteristics and qualities. It is important to remember that human sounding/appearing programmes like Siri are merely trained to respond in a specific way by a human programmer. Once you realise software is simply wired and installed to appear more like us those initially charming characteristics seem far less natural.

Next time Alexa tells you ‘she likes you’- just remember she is wired that way. It’s not true love. Sorry to disappoint.

Fish Tale 3: AI is only for huge companies with the mega-bucks

Technology and AI have associations with complex and mysterious science. People often think of expensive metallic robots and impressive drones when they hear the buzzword ‘AI. As a result, there is a common misconception that AI is only really beneficial to companies that already have a technological capability or extra money to spend.

The reality is that AI is often used in a much less shiny way and can be most valuable to businesses when its simple to use. Many new technologies are aimed at businesses from all ends of the spectrum with all sorts of focuses. You might not realise it but when you go onto a website and a little chatbot box pops up asking if you need assistance that is AI. As is your Google Maps. It is not ‘black box magic’ reserved for the elite.

Fish Tale 4: AI will take over our planet

Ruthless Robots are not coming to get us. This harks back to our earlier point that AI is not in any way human- it lacks the unique and beautiful capabilities of thought and emotion that define the human experience. Machines rely on people — the function because of people and are here to help not abolish.

As business models change, AI is emerging as the palatable people-helper we have all been looking for. The Robot revolution is not coming but instead technological advancement is here to make our lives easier and more effective.