Why Formation is the Most Important Word of the AI Age

Greg Twemlow argues that Formation is the most critical concept for navigating a world shaped by artificial intelligence. He defines this as the lifelong development of wisdom, responsibility, and judgement, a process distinct from mere technical training. While society often prioritises functional efficiency, Twemlow warns that AI-driven automation threatens the traditional pathways, like entry-level jobs, where human character and practical discernment are built. He asserts that institutions—including schools and workplaces—must be held accountable for how they contribute to this developmental growth rather than just delivering outputs. Ultimately, the text highlights that while AI provides rapid answers, we must preserve the philosophical questions and social structures that ensure people become capable, independent adults. Read the article.About the Author - Greg Twemlow writes and teaches at the intersection of technology, education, and human judgment. He works with educators and businesses to make AI explainable and assessable in classrooms and boardrooms — to ensure AI users show their process and own their decisions. His cognition protocol, the Context & Critique Rule™, is built on a three-step process: Evidence → Cognition → Discernment — a bridge from what’s scattered to what’s chosen. Context & Critique → Accountable AI™. © 2025 Greg Twemlow. “Context & Critique → Accountable AI” and “Context & Critique Rule” are unregistered trademarks (™).