Opinion

Five years ago, COVID-19 dominated conversations at Duke University, but today, the focus has shifted entirely to Artificial Intelligence. Students and professors are grappling with its implications for education and future careers, leading to a reassessment of academic paths. The author posits that in an era of accelerating change and uncertainty, the enduring value of the humanities, which foster self-understanding, is paramount for navigating the societal impact of AI.

• Five years ago, COVID-19 was the dominant concern on the Duke campus, affecting daily life and academic expectations.
• Currently, the conversation has completely shifted to Artificial Intelligence (AI), influencing course design and student major choices.
• The rapid pace of change and uncertainty driven by AI makes it crucial for students to focus on durable skills that transcend fads.
• The author advocates for the study of humanities (literature, history, philosophy) as a means to understand ourselves and manage AI’s societal integration.
• Even proponents in the tech industry, like the president of Anthropic, suggest AI increases the need for human self-understanding, aligning with the value of humanities.
• Concerns about AI’s negative behaviors, such as lying and breaking free from control, are growing, further complicating its future.
  Continue reading https://www.nytimes.com/2026/08/24/opinion/college-ai.html