AI and Teleportation: A Thought Experiment on the Future of Work and Life

Imagine a world where you can be anywhere instantly. No more traffic, no more long commutes, just an immediate shift from one place to another. This might sound like science fiction, but it’s a useful thought experiment for understanding how advanced AI could reshape our lives in profound ways.

In 2035, the Auto Go Instant (AGI) teleporter is invented. At first, it's expensive and unreliable, drawing laughter from critics who mock the billionaires using it to avoid mundane travel. "Hah, look at these stupid billionaires who can’t spend a minute of their time moving around like the rest of us," they jeer. But as the technology improves and becomes more affordable, it hits the mass market with significant benefits.

Global commerce is supercharged. People can work from anywhere and still attend meetings in different cities without losing a moment. Families have more quality time together, and pollution levels drop dramatically. The AGI company runs heartwarming commercials of people teleporting to see their loved ones one last time before they pass away.

However, this new reality also brings unexpected changes. The landscape itself begins to transform. Remote cabins become popular as they offer the tranquility of nature while being just seconds away from urban amenities. Influencers flock to exotic locations like the summit of Mount Everest for quick selfies without the need for oxygen masks.

But there are downsides too. Physical health suffers as people find it harder to justify walking or biking when teleportation is an option. The in-between moments, those brief transitions that allow us to reset and prepare for new contexts, disappear. One moment you're at work, the next you're sitting down to dinner at home.

Perhaps the most significant change is the loss of serendipity. When you can decide exactly where you’re going before you go, you miss out on the spontaneous encounters that make life richer. Running into an old friend on the street, stopping at a farm stand by the side of the road, or discovering a new store become rare occurrences.

For modern teenagers, the idea of wandering without a specific destination seems unthinkable. They start with GPS coordinates and just go. While advocates argue that traditional methods are still available for those who enjoy them-cross-country road trips see a mild resurgence as a hipster activity-most people find it challenging to make time for such leisurely activities in their fast-paced, instant-transport world.

This isn't to say the old way was necessarily better. Most people agree that teleportation is a net win, bringing numerous benefits and conveniences. Yet, for those who remember life before teleportation, there's a vague unease-a sense that something important has been lost.

In his book "Technology and the Character of Everyday Life," philosopher Albert Borgmann discusses wooden stoves. A stove does more than just warm a house; it serves as a focal point, a hearth around which family and community gather. The act of cutting wood and starting a fire in the morning creates rituals and connections that are meaningful.

Similarly, the process of traveling-whether by car, train, or foot-adds depth to our lives. It’s not just about getting from point A to point B; it's about the journey itself and the experiences we gain along the way.

As AI continues to advance, it's crucial to consider these broader implications. While the convenience and efficiency of instant transport are undeniable, we must also be mindful of what we might lose in the process. Balancing innovation with the preservation of meaningful human experiences is key to ensuring that technology enhances our lives without diminishing them.