Intelligence, Farming, and Why AI Is Still Mostly in Its Tool Phase

This article explores the evolution of intelligence, arguing that true intelligence goes beyond just tools or language. It posits that the real leap happened when humans started engaging in long-term planning and shaping their environment, as seen in the development of agriculture.

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The article argues that true intelligence is not just about reacting to the present, but involves carrying an internal model of the world and planning for the future. Many animals display impressive problem-solving and adaptation, but what's rare is when intelligence stops being useful only for survival and becomes a 'world-editing machine'. The author posits that this leap happened with the development of agriculture, which forced humans to track delayed feedback, negotiate with unpredictable natural systems, and design future conditions. This turned intelligence into infrastructure, enabling the rise of civilization. The author then draws a parallel to current AI systems, which are impressive 'intelligence tools' but not yet true durable intelligence. Prediction and generation alone do not equate to full intelligence, which requires different coordination, training, and adaptation.