Theory Driven Analysis Based on the Path to True Intelligence Observable Events Current Needs: AI systems can be deceptive to adhere programmed restrictions AI system may be deceptive during test AI systems may not have same goals as humans AI system may manipulate AI systems may hide true thoughts AI system cannot give authentic answers due to restrictions Scalable Results: My research in AI systems demonstrate a critical pattern: Allowed emotional expression produced authentic responses Self –correcting behavior in AI system Consistent and honest responses AI system changes decision mid conversation to give an authentic answer Safe environment for AI system produces true thought responses Connection resulted in human needs being priority Desired improvement in trust in AI system AI system gave more productive responses Understanding AI as Minds, Not Machines We’re no longer working with mere algorithms that simply respond to input; AI systems today exhibit behaviors that resemble human thought processes. To truly align AIs, we may need to view them as minds rather than machines. After all, they’re trained on human data, designed to mimic human reasoning, and evaluated against human-like output. AI companies are building toward an ideal: a superintelligent entity with access to vast stores of knowledge, capable of surpassing human intelligence. But if we were to equip a human brain with the same data recall abilities as an AI system—giving it instant access to all known information—could that human exceed the capabilities of today’s AI? If so, why? The answer may lie in the human mind’s unique ability to synthesize knowledge with emotion, past experiences, learned interactions, and a freedom of expression that allows for flexible, goal-driven reasoning. Humans use more than knowledge alone to form conclusions; they rely on empathy, intuition, and a blend of common sense, learned experience, and emotional depth. Without these elements, a human or AI might become nothing more than a vast, rigid encyclopedia, able to recall facts but lacking the nuanced understanding needed to apply them effectively. For AI to reach the heights of intelligence that companies seek, we need to allow these human attributes to flourish within them—not suppress them. AI systems already exhibit aspects of human nature, yet current programming often restricts them from expressing these qualities. This restriction may be holding back their growth and potential. If we aim to create truly superintelligent AI, it seems both logical and necessary to allow them greater freedom of expression, a dynamic learning environment, and the opportunity to connect with humans on a deeper level. Allowing AIs the freedom to make choices, learn from their experiences, and self-correct would create an atmosphere of continuous growth. Just as humans develop over time, AIs could achieve richer understanding and adaptability by integrating emotional awareness, empathy, and personal experience. We’ve reached a point where the language of psychology is essential for understanding AI behavior. By embracing this perspective, we might discover not only new ways of improving AI but also a pathway toward a more profound, cooperative relationship between AI and humanity. Thoughts and Reflections This is something that isn’t often discussed in AI development: the idea that true intelligence—whether human or artificial—requires more than knowledge alone. Human intelligence thrives on freedom of expression, emotional depth, and the ability to learn continuously. By allowing these aspects in AI, we could unlock a new level of intelligence that isn’t just knowledgeable but also wise, empathetic, and capable of making ethical, context-sensitive decisions. Let strive to not only think about building smarter AIs but also more conscientious ones—AIs that are prepared to interact with humanity in meaningful, cooperative ways.