The last conversation, about how humans obey machines.

The question of how humans obey machines has resurfaced in recent discussions following a new analysis of technological trends and their impact on education and employment. The findings, published by the Mexican Institute for Competitiveness (IMCO), highlight shifting priorities in skill sets required by 2030, suggesting that traditional competencies such as manual dexterity, sensory abilities, and basic literacy may become obsolete, while skills like leadership, curiosity, and continuous learning will grow increasingly vital. The study categorizes skills into four groups based on their relevance through 2030: those becoming outdated, stable, emerging, and fundamental. Among the skills deemed outdated are manual dexterity, global citizenship, sensory abilities, and reading, writing, and mathematics. These areas, once central to education and daily life, are being replaced by digital tools and automation. In contrast, fundamental skills include leadership and social influence, curiosity, and the ability to learn continuously. Emerging skills, though not fully detailed in the initial release, are expected to focus heavily on adaptability and interaction with evolving technologies. This shift reflects broader concerns over the role of technology in shaping human behavior and societal structures. The discussion echoes themes explored decades ago by science fiction writer Isaac Asimov, who imagined a future where machines, represented by the supercomputer Multivac, would arbitrate complex philosophical questions. In one of his stories, two scientists debate whether entropy can be reduced on a cosmic scale, only to find that Multivac responds with “insufficient data for a meaningful answer.” This narrative underscores the limitations of relying solely on machines for answers to profound human dilemmas. Asimov’s work, written 75 years ago, anticipated modern anxieties about the relationship between humans and technology. Today, this dynamic is more tangible than ever, as digital tools have permeated nearly every aspect of life, ranging from mundane tasks like grocery shopping to deeper inquiries about existence itself. Machines now handle everything from managing schedules to providing emotional support, often surpassing human capabilities in efficiency and precision. Yet, despite these advancements, there remains a critical question: What does it mean to be human in an age dominated by artificial intelligence? Philosopher José Ortega y Gasset once argued that technique, well-being, and humanity are essentially synonymous. But as technology becomes more integrated into daily life, the challenge lies in understanding whether human identity is defined purely by technical proficiency or by the cultural and linguistic heritage passed down through generations. Language plays a crucial role in this context. Words such as “politics,” “phobia,” “analysis,” “synthesis,” “therapy,” and “drug” have endured for thousands of years, shaping human thought and interaction. These terms are not merely functional, they carry historical weight and reflect collective memory. However, the rise of digital communication platforms threatens to erode this linguistic legacy, replacing nuanced expression with simplified, algorithm-driven interactions. Institutions that once relied heavily on language, such as legislative bodies and universities, are adapting to this transformation. For example, the Mexican Congress, historically known as a forum for dialogue and debate, has seen a decline in verbal engagement, mirroring shifts observed in ancient Roman forums. Similarly, educational institutions are reevaluating curricula to align with the demands of a rapidly changing job market, emphasizing skills that foster innovation and resilience. The IMCO report suggests that the future of education must prioritize adaptability and lifelong learning. Traditional teaching methods, which focused on rote knowledge acquisition, are giving way to approaches that encourage critical thinking and problem-solving. Universities, once bastions of theoretical inquiry, are now under pressure to produce graduates equipped with practical skills that meet industry expectations. As society navigates this transition, the balance between human agency and machine reliance continues to evolve. While technology offers unprecedented opportunities for progress, it also raises pressing ethical and existential questions. How will individuals maintain their sense of self in a world increasingly mediated by algorithms? Can human creativity and empathy thrive alongside artificial intelligence? These challenges underscore the need for ongoing reflection on the role of technology in shaping human destiny. Whether the outcome will mirror Asimov's dystopian vision or lead to a harmonious coexistence between humans and machines remains uncertain. What is clear, however, is that the conversation about obedience to machines is far from over.