Are we losing our humanity?
Presenter: Richard Dowsett
Please join the Zoom Meeting here: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/971381033
As I have cruised the internet over the past months, I have come across this question more and more: “Are we losing our humanity?” Searching this question on YouTube brings up 50+ (I stopped counting at 50) video commentaries, interviews and panel discussions.
On another front, the Humanist Society of Greater Phoenix have begun collaborating with Arizona State University on Project Humanities. #1 on the Project Humanities ‘Top 10 Questions’ is “Are we losing our humanity?”
So, let’s add The HAT Forum to the legion of curious questioners on YouTube, Reddit, Substack, and all media, social, new and legacy, who are exploring the matter.
1. What do we mean by “our humanity”? Do we mean everything (the good, the bad and the ugly) that makes us human and distinguishes us from other species and future forms of consciousness that could arise from AI? Or are we thinking more about humanity as “humaneness” – the positive side of our nature? Two very separate threads of inquiry.
2. How exactly are we losing whatever aspect you identify that is key to “our humanity”? What are we losing it to? What are the indications that this loss is happening?
3. What are the antidotes to this loss? How can we arrest or reverse it?
4. How has the concept of “our humanity” changed over time? Is it possible that what we view as a loss of our humanity is just the latest in a series of changes in how we express our humanity?
Selected Resources
Dana Milbank column, Washington Post - KEY ARTICLE, RECOMMENDED
We are losing our humanity - July 25 2025
Humanity as credibility and integrity in our dealings with others
We are losing our humanity TEDx Talk
Humanity as individuality – the substitution of AI competence, speed and polish for any chance of real insight, true creativity or authentic individuality
Are we losing our humanity? Mike Helfman's Curiosity
Humanity as the qualitative aspects – lived and shared experience, qualia.
Are we losing our humanity with measurements?
Please join the Zoom Meeting here: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/971381033