Thomas, I am glad you are staying on top of this. The potentially destructive effect of AI is impossible to calculate but certainly concerning. And I understand the parallels you are drawing. Here's another: Time-saving devices were meant to liberate us by freeing us from menial labor. A byproduct has been that we are less physically fit.

If asked, No, I wouldn't go back to that earlier time. But there may be a tipping point ahead on this somewhat precarious path.