This article discusses the challenge faced by innovators who create something new only to find their founding principles overrun by latecomers — those who gain attention for a concept that was not understood when originally introduced. An example of this “innovator’s dilemma” is the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
AI is a rapidly growing field with large numbers of individuals and companies jumping on the trend, often without sufficient understanding of underlying concepts. This article points out that many ‘bandwagon jumpers’ don’t fully comprehend their subject, producing shallow interpretations of complex principles.
Dr. Matilde Sánchez Conde, an infectious disease physician, has personally experienced this phenomenon. She had been working on defining the fragility model for over a decade, with little recognition or funding, and now finds the concept is suddenly popular. However, she observes that many who claim to be experts lack an in-depth understanding of the theory.
The solution, the article suggests, is to not be overly concerned about these latecomers. It contends that few will achieve significant impact due to their lack of depth and understanding. A serious AI project requires more than copying and pasting ideas; it asks for a detailed understanding of underlying processes, algorithms, data analysis, continuous learning and also the ability to correct mistakes made during the process. Only those who dedicate years to study and experimentation can truly deliver meaningful contributions to the field.
The author then hints at a three-question test to determine if someone truly understands why machine learning is drastically changing medical research. Although the exact questions are not provided, the mention suggests that these questions test the depth of understanding one has about AI. Through these questions, it becomes apparent who among the AI enthusiasts have the knowledge and who are merely following the trend.
In conclusion, this post provides encouragement to pioneers within the AI field despite the apparent takeover of their ideas by bandwagon jumpers. It asserts that true expertise and understanding cannot be swiftly acquired and therefore the latecomers will not achieve the same success. The article ends by inviting readers to join the author in a project that will provide in-depth understanding of AI, providing them with the valuable expertise they need to distinguish themselves in the field.
