Opinion articles written in the style of their authors should be based on verified facts and maintain a respectful tone towards individuals, even if their actions are critiqued. These articles should include the author's name, followed by a footer indicating their office, academic title, political affiliation (if applicable), and main occupation or occupation related to the topic being discussed. Just as technologies such as paper, the printing press, and the internet have reshaped our world, artificial intelligence (AI) will transform our society and our roles within it. Recently, I had the privilege of attending the Obama Foundation's Leaders program in Athens, where I met over 100 individuals from various industries, public sectors, and civil society who are driving change in their respective fields. During the program, I had the opportunity to engage in a meaningful discussion with former President Barack Obama about the profound impact of AI on our society. He regards it as a top priority, and I share his belief that we must act now to leverage the opportunities presented by AI while minimizing its potential risks. I have been passionate about this topic for many years. Nearly two decades ago, I developed an AI system based on neural networks that could generate poetry in the style of William Blake. As the Chief Data Scientist at the UN, my team and I trained an AI capable of composing speeches similar to those delivered by presidents of member states at the UN General Assembly. Our intention was to highlight the societal challenges posed by this technology. Many of these challenges are unfolding at a faster pace than anticipated. My conversation with Barack Obama reminded me of 2011, when I witnessed his speech at the UN General Assembly advocating for the empowering capabilities of digital technologies during the Arab Spring. Reflecting on those times, it is evident that our optimism may have been misplaced as the years that followed lacked proactive ethical, policy, and regulatory measures regarding social media and data privacy. This oversight has resulted in surveillance capitalism, polarization, mental health issues, and even human rights violations. With the rapid advancement of generative AI, a technology that is engulfing our digital landscape at an accelerated rate, we must take prompt action and not overlook the associated risks. We need reliable and unbiased technologies, clearly defined boundaries, and measures to prevent the consolidation of power that can exacerbate inequality and marginalize more people. Moreover, we must recognize the potential harm that can be caused by the weaponization of AI-generated narratives, with today's chatbots being likened to the "Kalashnikovs of disinformation, " as astutely described by Marta Peirano. AI possesses immense power, and narratives created through algorithmic assistance pose a significant threat to the stability and equilibrium of our society.

Nevertheless, beyond mitigating the risks, I remain optimistic that we can prevail, as long as we initiate a systemic transformation. The AI genie cannot be contained; it has already been released from the lamp. Similar to how the advent of paper, the printing press, and the internet impacted our world, AI will reshape our society and redefine our roles. These new tools offer unprecedented opportunities, such as accelerating and democratizing access to personalized and precise medicine, as exemplified by initiatives like Spotlab. Not only healthcare, but also education, engineering, and design will witness a flourishing of advancements and creativity akin to the Cambrian explosion. Cognitive tasks performed at minimal cost by AI-driven tools will enhance productivity, with the potential to improve countless lives if properly managed. Where do we begin?By embracing and experiencing AI firsthand, rather than merely discussing it. Companies, public organizations, associations, NGOs, educational institutions, and all stakeholders should make a genuine effort to explore these tools and understand their potential utility in fulfilling our respective missions, while also recognizing the pitfalls that may arise. We should not rely on others to do it for us, as most of us are still in the early stages of understanding AI. We find ourselves at a critical moment in this socio-economic upheaval brought by AI, akin to the receding waters just before the arrival of a colossal wave. It is vital that we prepare ourselves. The responsibility for managing this "AI transition, " where social interactions and the knowledge economy are mediated by AI, must not solely rest on technology companies and governments, but must be taken up collectively by society as a whole. Establishing red lines and regulatory frameworks will only be the starting point. AI is a tool that can be harnessed to create new products and services, build accessible cities, combat climate change, map biodiversity, revolutionize science, empower artists' imagination, protect and reinvent democracies, and above all, educate present and future generations. Irrespective of our roles and sectors, now is the time for experimentation, active engagement in discussions, and participating in shaping a more humane AI that aligns with our noble objectives. Miguel Luengo-Oroz served as the Chief Data Scientist at the UN until 2022 and currently holds the position of CEO at Spotlab. For more English-language news coverage, you can sign up for our weekly newsletter from EL PAÍS USA Edition.