October 2025: Three Futures of AI — Which Path Will We Choose?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic idea, it’s here, and it’s changing everything. From how we diagnose illnesses to how we manage portfolios, AI is transforming industries, economies, and everyday life.
As we embrace this powerful technology, it’s worth asking: what kind of future are we building?
As a longtime Star Trek fan, I often reflect on how science fiction helps us imagine what’s possible. Three iconic stories - The Terminator, Star Wars, and Star Trek - offer surprisingly useful ways to think about AI’s potential paths.
The “Terminator” Future — AI as a Threat
This is the cautionary tale. In The Terminator, machines become self-aware and turn against humanity. While it’s an extreme scenario, it reflects real concerns about losing control over technology.
AI is already replacing jobs in manufacturing, logistics, and even professional services like law and accounting. Entire industries are being reshaped, and not everyone is benefiting equally. For many, this means uncertainty about the future of work and income.
Socially, AI raises questions about privacy and surveillance. Algorithms can track and analyze our behavior in ways that challenge personal freedoms. And with a few tech giants dominating the AI space, there’s growing concern about data control and market power.
This future reminds us that without thoughtful oversight, technology can outpace our values, and potentially undermine them.
The “Star Wars” Future — AI as a Tool for Good or Evil
In Star Wars, the Force can be used for good or evil, and the same goes for AI. The technology itself is neutral; it’s how we choose to use it that matters.
On the positive side, AI is helping doctors detect diseases earlier, improving energy efficiency, and making education more accessible. It’s also helping businesses make smarter decisions, reduce waste, and better serve customers.
But there’s a darker side. AI can be used to create deepfakes, spread misinformation, and manipulate public opinion. It can also reinforce inequality if access to AI tools is limited to certain groups or regions.
This is the ethical crossroads we’re facing. Our choices, not the technology itself, will determine whether AI helps solve problems or creates new ones.
The “Star Trek” Future — AI as a Partner for Progress
This is the future I believe in. In Star Trek, humanity overcomes its greatest challenges through curiosity, cooperation, and innovation. Technology is a partner, not a threat.
AI is already creating new industries and jobs in clean tech, robotics, and data science. It’s helping businesses become more efficient and freeing people to focus on creativity, empathy, and care.
It’s also improving quality of life, from smarter healthcare to better public services. Imagine a world where AI helps manage energy grids, supports aging populations, and makes education truly personalized.
This future isn’t automatic. It requires leadership, inclusive design, and a commitment to keeping humanity at the center of progress.
So, What’s Our Role?
AI is a societal shift, not just a tech shift. As investors, we have a unique opportunity to help shape the outcome.
We can:
- Stay informed about how AI is impacting markets and industries
- Invest in companies using AI responsibly and sustainably
- Support innovation that benefits people, not just profits
- Advocate for ethical standards and broad access to technology
AI will be what we make of it. The real question isn’t what machines will do — it’s who we’ll become as we use them.
“Live long and Prosper”.
