Co-Intelligence
Living and Working with AI
Ethan Mollick
In Co-Intelligence, Ethan Mollick explores the evolving relationship between humans and artificial intelligence (AI), presenting a balanced exploration of AI’s potential to transform work and learning. The book introduces readers to “co-intelligence”—a concept emphasising collaboration with AI as a “co-worker, co-teacher, and coach.” Mollick’s background in innovation and education informs his insights, with practical examples from diverse fields such as corporate strategy and classroom education, showing how AI can be leveraged effectively without overshadowing human creativity and critical thinking.
Mollick navigates AI’s complexities with accessible language, aiming the book at readers with varying levels of familiarity with AI technology. For example, he offers guidance on using AI in education, dispelling myths about students needing to be “prompting experts.” Instead, Mollick advocates for AI as a supportive tool that enhances learning by providing feedback and aiding teachers in differentiating instruction based on individual needs. His approach highlights the importance of human expertise in guiding AI applications and maintaining core educational principles even as technology advances.
In the final chapters, Mollick outlines four possible future scenarios for AI’s evolution, from controlled development to exponential growth or even the potential of achieving artificial general intelligence. He uses these scenarios to encourage readers to engage with AI’s potential while staying aware of ethical considerations. This engaging yet cautionary book offers a foundation in understanding AI’s capabilities and implications, making it an essential read for educators, leaders, and anyone interested in navigating the future of human-AI collaboration.
