Artificial Intelligence: Why Human Connection Matters More Than Ever

Artificial intelligence (AI) has rapidly become part of everyday life, transforming how we communicate, work, and learn. Yet as technology advances, experts warn that it is testing the very essence of our human connection.

Brain expert Dr. Kobus Neethling explains that while society has excelled at developing technology, it has struggled to nurture human creativity and interpersonal skills. “We’ve been incredibly good at developing things, but we have been pathetic in developing people skills and creativity,” he says. “It’s still so dominant today. We’re moving away from that human relation.”

Dr. Neethling points out that our educational systems and workplaces emphasize left-brain skills—organized, disciplined, analytical, and structured thinking—at the expense of emotional intelligence and interpersonal development. “People are more connected now, much more connected, but with very little emotional depth,” he notes. “It’s easier that way, but we are becoming absolutely more disconnected.”

He draws a striking analogy: giving a young child a cellphone to keep them busy is like teaching society to substitute digital interactions for real human connection. As AI and technology continue to permeate daily life, the challenge will be finding a balance between digital convenience and the deep, authentic relationships that define our humanity.

Dr. Neethling emphasizes that fostering creativity, emotional intelligence, and meaningful interpersonal relationships is more crucial than ever in an increasingly AI-driven world.