Soyinka to Scientists: Don’t Let AI Rob Us of Our Humanity
*NLNG celebrates literary, scientific, creative excellence at 2026 awards night Sunday Ehigiator Nobel laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, yesterday warned scientists and technology developers against allowing artificial intelligence (AI) to erode
Nobel laureate Professor Wole Soyinka cautioned scientists and innovators against allowing artificial intelligence to diminish human creativity and imagination. Speaking at the 2026 Nigerian Prize for Science and Innovation Awards in Lagos, Soyinka warned that excessive reliance on AI could undermine humanity's ability to think independently and express themselves creatively.
He cautioned that machines should not write literature or poetry, as this would dehumanize society. Soyinka also expressed concern that AI could eventually create digital clones of writers and creative professionals, raising questions about the authenticity of creative works. However, he stressed that his concern was not to stifle technological progress but to ensure that advancement did not come at the expense of humanity.
Soyinka called for a synthesis of science and humanities, urging scientists to humanize AI and not let technology "machinise" humanity. He urged NLNG to consider a special consolation prize to recognize and protect human creativity as the influence of AI grows.
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