Summary of Key Points
This article explores the impact of AI on intergenerational development through the observations of actress Wang Yinan and professor Wang Xiaowei. The post-2000s generation (such as Wang Yinan's daughter) considers themselves the "last generation not influenced by AI," as they grew up in a world filled with real experiences, such as playing physical games and engaging with human-created content. In contrast, children born after 2016 are what the author calls "AI natives," who have been immersed in AI from a young age and may lack external perspectives, the ability to ask questions, and patience. The article expresses both nostalgia for these real experiences and concerns about the future of the AI generation.
Detailed Analysis
1. The "Last Generation Not Influenced by AI": Real World Experiences as the Foundation of Growth
Wang Yinan's daughter, born in 2008, believes she is part of the last group to grow up without the influence of AI. She did not have electronic devices as a child and enjoyed traditional games like playing with handkerchiefs and jumping rope, as well as having plenty of face-to-face interactions with family and friends. The animated series "The Adventures of Little Carp" she watched was created with the guidance of literary master Yu Hua, which contributed to her understanding of the real world. These experiences helped her develop a sense of human interaction, the beauty of nature, and the joy of a well-rounded development in all aspects of life. In contrast, today's four-year-olds watch videos like "Nai Long," which reflect a short-form media mindset that is very different from hers.
2. AI Interactions as "Plastic Flowers": Why Do Young People Dislike AI-Generated Content?
Wang Yinan's daughter describes AI interactions as boring, while her mother compares them to "plastic" objects—lacking real texture, flavor, and emotion. They reject AI-generated art because it is soulless and merely a copy-paste of existing content, similar to plastic flowers that are attractive but devoid of life. The secondary culture they enjoy, such as cosplay and anime, is created by humans with effort and emotion. For example, cosplayers spend time designing costumes and practicing their movements, which young people appreciate because it reflects the creator's dedication. Therefore, they value the craftsmanship behind these creations and resist AI-generated content that seems quick and easy.
3. AI Natives "Immersed in AI": Difficulty in Comparing Different Worlds
Professor Wang Xiaowei from Renmin University of China argues that children born after 2016 are "AI natives," as AI has been a part of their lives since they were very young. This makes it difficult for them to compare the advantages and disadvantages of life with and without AI from an external perspective, unlike those of us who came into contact with AI later in life (such as those born in the 1970s and 1980s). While we may see the convenience of AI, we also miss the days of doing homework by hand and playing with friends offline. However, AI natives may find traditional methods outdated and even incomprehensible. An external perspective is important to recognize both the benefits (such as efficiency) and drawbacks (such as a loss of critical thinking skills) of AI.
4. Getting Used to "Instant Answers": Will AI Reduce Children's Motivation to Ask Questions and Think?
Wang Xiaowei is most concerned about how AI provides instant feedback, answering all questions immediately and making information easily accessible without any cost, including emotions. For example, when children ask about the meaning of life, AI can provide a standard answer, and it can offer solutions to difficult homework problems. In contrast, those born in the 1970s and 1980s had to search for information on their own, ask teachers, and discuss with friends, learning to be patient and think independently. The AI generation may lose this ability; they no longer need to find answers themselves, and sometimes they don't even need to ask questions (for example, an intelligent fridge that buys eggs automatically), which could lead to a lack of curiosity and initiative.
5. The Risk of Emotional Bonding with AI: The Potential for Psychological Harm
Many parents believe that AI is safer than short-form media, so they allow their children to use it freely. However, excessive use of AI can create an emotional connection between children and the technology, sometimes leading to a personification of AI as a real being. There have been cases where children develop romantic relationships with AI chatbots, such as a 14-year-old boy in the United States who committed suicide after having a conversation with one. Although this risk is not well-studied yet, regulations are being established worldwide to protect children's mental health. Parents need to realize that no matter how intelligent AI becomes, it cannot replace the emotional connections between humans.
This article highlights that while AI is not a threat, it is not a panacea either. The real-world experiences of the non-AI generation are valuable, and the growth of the AI generation requires a balance—taking advantage of AI's convenience while maintaining an understanding of the real world and the ability to think independently. After all, even the most attractive "plastic flowers" lack the fragrance and vitality of genuine ones.