21 February 2026

AI Can Do Superhuman Things, But So Can Forklifts: A Summary of New Scientist's Insightful Video

In a thought-provoking video titled "AI can do superhuman things, but you know, so could forklifts," the team at New Scientist delves into the misconceptions surrounding artificial intelligence and its capabilities. The video challenges the notion that AI possesses some form of superhuman knowledge or abilities, drawing a parallel to tools like forklifts that, while powerful, are not inherently intelligent or omniscient.

Key Points Discussed in the Video

The video opens with a discussion about the common perception of AI as an all-powerful entity. The narrator emphasizes that while AI can perform tasks that exceed human capabilities, it is essential to remember that these tools are designed to assist us, not to replace our judgment or decision-making. The analogy of a forklift is used to illustrate this point: just as we wouldn't entrust a forklift with our bank account, we should be cautious about how we perceive and interact with AI.

The conversation then shifts to the tendency of humans to anthropomorphize AI. The narrator explains that because AI systems communicate in human language, they can easily be mistaken for sentient beings. This impulse to attribute human-like characteristics to AI is not unique; it stems from our evolutionary background as social creatures. Our brains are wired for social interaction, which makes it natural for us to project human traits onto seemingly intelligent systems.

The video also touches on the importance of design in AI systems. The narrator argues that the responsibility to prevent misunderstandings about AI lies not with individuals but with the creators of these technologies. By designing AI systems that clearly communicate their limitations and capabilities, we can help users avoid falling into the trap of overestimating their abilities.

Key Takeaways

1. AI vs. Tools: AI can perform superhuman tasks, but it should be viewed as a tool rather than an all-knowing entity.
2. Caution in Trust: Just as we wouldn't give a forklift access to sensitive information, we should be cautious about how much we trust AI in decision-making processes.
3. Anthropomorphism: Our tendency to attribute human characteristics to AI is rooted in our evolutionary history and social nature.
4. Design Responsibility: The creators of AI systems have a responsibility to design them in a way that minimizes misconceptions about their capabilities.

By summarizing the key points from New Scientist's video, we hope to provide you with a clearer understanding of the complexities surrounding AI and its role in our lives. This insight can help you navigate the evolving landscape of technology with a more informed perspective.