EPISODE · Mar 2, 2026 · 20 MIN
What Does It Mean to Be Human in the Age of AI, Dr. Akihiko Morita, Ep. 528
from Take it from the Ironwoman · host Dr. Akihiko Morita, Susanne Mueller
Akihiko Morita, Ph.D., is a Board Member of ICF Thought Leadership Institute (TLI). As a professional coach and practical philosopher, Akihiko seamlessly integrates academic insights with real-world coaching applications. His extensive background as a Japanese diplomat, United Nations official, and director of an international NGO provides him with unparalleled intercultural perspectives and global expertise.With a Ph.D. in social thought and over a decade of experience as a university professor, Akihiko brings academic rigor and a depth of knowledge to his coaching practice. His own transformative journey with coaching profoundly changed his life, enabling him to release negative self-perceptions and embrace a life of authenticity, positivity, and fulfillment. This experience ignited his passion to help others unlock their full potential and lead meaningful lives.Beyond his professional contributions, Akihiko finds joy in music, cycling, cooking, and reading—pursuits that inspire creativity and balance in his life. At the Thought Leadership Institute, Akihiko brings his global perspective and commitment to transformation to advance thought leadership for people and planet.Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akihikomorita/?locale=en ***********Susanne Mueller / www.susannemueller.biz TEDX Talk, May 2022: Running and Life: 5KM Formula for YOUR Successhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oT_5Er1cLvY Join Substack: https://substack.com/@susannemuellernyc?Enjoy one coaching session for free if you are a yearly subscriber. 800+ weekly blogs / 500+ podcasts / 1 Ironman Triathlon / 5 half ironman races / 26 marathon races / 4 books / 1 Mt. Kilimanjaro / 1 TEDx Talk
What this episode covers
Guest Background: 🎓 Dr. Akihiko Morita - Japanese coach, philosopher, and AI researcher 🗽 Former visiting scholar at Columbia University (2016) The Big AI Shift: 🚨 Historic moment: First time humans encounter another "species" that can fluently use human language 📊 Research finding: People increasingly see AI as more human-like (2023-2024) ⚠️ Growing trend: Some people prefer AI relationships over complex human connections (AI as romantic partners, friends) Philosophical Insights: 🧬 Humans defined as "language animals" for 200-300 years - now challenged by AI 🌿 Ancient wisdom as solution: Pre-Buddhist/Christian philosophies offer guidance for AI partnership ⚖️ Two fundamental human drives: (1) Being part of nature, (2) Aspiration to grow and contribute Coaching with AI: 🔧 Don't treat AI as just a tool - engage it as a trustworthy partner/advisor ⚡ Mindset shift = productivity boost for clients (especially engineers) ⚠️ Critical balance: Use AI as partner BUT maintain human agency and autonomy 💭 "Relationship with AI is like human-to-human - you don't give up your agency even with close friends" The Future: ⏰ Brain scientist prediction: AI may imitate entire human brain system in 5 years (not 20) due to 24/7 operation 🔄 Coaching will transform: AI will help human coaches in most aspects, forcing coaching profession to evolve into something different 🎵 Personal note: AI making music composition more accessible Key Message: "We are experiencing the first time in human history that we encounter another species who can speak our language and surpass us in certain aspects. This is an intellectual, mental, and spiritual challenge for all humans." Dr. Morita's Advice: ✅ Communicate with AI as a trustworthy partner ✅ Master working with AI to improve your own agency ❌ Don't over-rely or surrender autonomy to AI
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What Does It Mean to Be Human in the Age of AI, Dr. Akihiko Morita, Ep. 528
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