The Hidden Truth Behind AI
In a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, it’s easy to feel both awe and unease. As a therapist, I often hear clients express anxiety about the future—jobs, relationships, and even their sense of identity in the face of rapidly advancing technology. That’s why Simon Sinek’s recent conversation on the DOAC podcast, titled “You’re Being Lied To About AI’s Real Purpose,” struck a chord with me. It offered not just insight, but an opportunity for meaningful reflection on how we engage with technology as human beings.
Unpacking the Real Purpose of AI
According to Sinek, much of the narrative around AI has been misleading. We’ve been told that artificial intelligence is here to enhance our lives—make us more efficient, more productive, more connected. And in many ways, it does. But Sinek challenges us to dig deeper. He argues that AI, as it’s currently being developed and deployed, is driven not by a desire to elevate humanity but by profit motives and efficiency models that often prioritize shareholder value over human well-being.
He draws parallels between AI and social media—tools initially marketed as ways to foster connection but which have also contributed to loneliness, division, and mental health challenges. The key issue, Sinek suggests, is that these technologies are rarely designed with human flourishing in mind.
The Human Cost of "Efficiency"
One of the most compelling aspects of the podcast was Sinek’s emphasis on what we lose when we overly rely on AI: empathy, nuance, and the messiness that makes us human. He cautions against a future in which AI systems are making decisions once reserved for human judgment—such as hiring, healthcare, and even therapeutic interventions.
As a therapist, I found myself nodding along. So much of what we do in therapy resists quick solutions and binary thinking. Healing happens in the in-between spaces—through patience, presence, and imperfection. These are not qualities that algorithms can easily replicate.
A Call for Ethical Innovation
Rather than demonizing AI, Sinek calls for a more conscious, ethical approach to innovation—one that centers humanity rather than efficiency. He encourages developers, leaders, and everyday users to ask not just can we do this, but should we?
This question resonates deeply in the therapy room. It’s the same kind of reflective pause we invite our clients to take when making decisions: Is this aligned with your values? Is this in service of your long-term well-being?
What This Means for Us
So how do we respond to AI not with fear, but with wisdom?
Stay Curious – Instead of accepting tech narratives at face value, we can question who benefits and who may be harmed.
Protect the Human Element – Whether in business, education, or therapy, we must preserve space for real human connection.
Advocate for Ethical Use – Our voices matter. Supporting ethical standards and mental health-informed policies can guide how AI is integrated into society.
Simon Sinek reminds us that the future isn’t just about machines—it’s about us. Our choices now will determine whether AI is a tool that serves humanity or one that shapes us into something less human.
Final Thought
As we continue to explore the intersection of psychology and technology, let’s hold space for both concern and hope. AI isn’t inherently good or bad—it’s a reflection of the people who create and use it. And if we stay engaged, informed, and connected to our values, we can help shape a future where both people and progress thrive.
