In a thought-provoking new episode of DisrupTV (Episode 405), R “Ray” Wang hosts a panel featuring Lee Rainie (Director of the Imagining the Digital Future Center at Elon University), along with authors Margaret Moore and Jeffrey Hull, co-authors of The Science of Leadership.
The Central Question: Humanity in an AI‑Dominated Future
As we bargain with increasingly powerful AI systems, the conversation pivots around a critical concern: How do we retain and enhance what makes us human? The episode dives deep into:
1. The Erosion Risk of Core Human Traits
Rainie highlights research identifying 12 essential human traits—such as social-emotional intelligence and critical thinking—that could be weakened by our dependence on AI Constellation Research Inc.. His warning: AI must augment, not Replace the uniquely human capabilities that foster empathy, nuance, and resilient problem‑solving.
2. Leadership in the Age of Machines
Margaret Moore and Jeffrey Hull draw on their experiences from The Science of Leadership, emphasizing nine leadership capacities indispensable for the coming decades. These include:
- Authenticity
- Humility
- Lifelong adaptability
- Collaborative orientation
They make the case that transformational leadership—rather than transactional oversight—will be critical if organizations are to thrive alongside intelligent systems.
3. AI as a Leadership Ally
Far from being adversaries, AI tools present opportunities to enhance shared leadership, provided human values and decision-making remain central. According to Moore and Hull, AI can:
- Support collective intelligence
- Enable data-driven decisions
- Empower leaders to focus on higher‑order skills like vision, purpose, and culture
Key Takeaways
The discussion underscored that AI must remain human‑centric, designed to support rather than supplant the human mind. Leadership will need to evolve in this new era, with authenticity, collaboration, and adaptability becoming more valuable than ever. Successful leaders will embrace continual growth, cultivating humility and the ability to pivot as technology reshapes workplaces and societies. Above all, the integration of AI must be balanced with a steadfast commitment to human values, ensuring that decisions are guided not only by data and efficiency but also by empathy, ethics, and purpose.
Looking Ahead to 2035
This episode lays the groundwork for a future where technology is woven into—but not central to—our humanity. By 2035, those who lead with empathy, curiosity, and ethical clarity will distinguish themselves from pure algorithmic efficiency.
If you'd like to dive deeper into any of the nine capacities or explore how organizations are reshaping leadership models today, let us know, we’d be happy to share follow-up reflections or real-world case studies.
