Pedro Reis, former Economy Minister and current Executive Director of the António Pargana Foundation, emphasized that the relationship between the introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and increased productivity is the major challenge for the national economy.
“The relationship of AI and the increase in productivity is the major challenge of the Portuguese and European economy,” said the former minister at the “Fusion: A Devoteam Conference” taking place today in Lisbon.
Reis argued that Europe positions itself on the side of the well-intentioned, which compromises competitiveness, industrialization, innovation, and scale. He called for more “pragmatism, efficiency, and less romanticism.”
“This topic must be articulated universally,” especially considering the fundamental relationship between Europe and the United States in this area.
The former minister questioned whether there has ever been a case where a technological change had a direct, swift, and overwhelming impact like AI. He explained that technological development reaches the majority of the population and serves as a democratizing element because it increases opportunities, placing small companies on par with larger ones.
In this sense, “AI has a profound impact on humanity, governments, academia, and organizations, where everyone is involved.”
The current Executive Director of the António Pargana Foundation also discussed whether AI will act as a replacement or a complement to human capabilities, advocating for a balance between the two aspects. He stated, “It complements the empowerment of the individual but also the manipulation of a society.”
Pedro Reis concluded with the idea that “AI is a transformational tool that could usher in a new epoch for humanity, but if seen as an alternative brain, it raises security issues, necessitating a balance between the two aspects.”
The initiative organized by the technology consulting firm Devoteam is being held today at the Pavilion of Knowledge in Lisbon, aiming to discuss ways to make AI more human and useful for society.
Bruno Mota, CEO of Devoteam Portugal, noted that “artificial intelligence is transforming the way we live, work, and create.”
