OpenAI's new ChatGPT model, o3, has demonstrated impressive intelligence, scoring 136 on the Norway Mensa test, surpassing 98% of humans. In a custom offline test designed by MaximumTruth.org to eliminate training data influence, o3 scored 116, placing it in the top 15% of human intelligence. This rapid advancement in AI capabilities has led to a notable shift in perception, particularly among Gen Z.

A recent EduBirdie survey reveals that 25% of Gen Z now believe AI is already conscious, and over half anticipate AI achieving sentience soon. This growing belief is likely influenced by the increasing sophistication and human-like interactions offered by AI models like ChatGPT. The survey also found that nearly 70% of Gen Zers use politeness markers like "please" and "thank you" when interacting with AI.

Furthermore, the survey highlights the integration of AI into various aspects of Gen Z's lives. Two-thirds regularly use AI for work communication, 40% use it for writing emails, and a quarter use it to refine Slack replies. Some even rely on AI for sensitive tasks, with nearly 20% sharing workplace information such as contracts and personal details. Additionally, a significant portion of Gen Z utilizes AI for social support, including seeking advice on work-related issues or using it as a therapist.

The increasing reliance on AI for personal and professional matters has blurred the lines between technology and human interaction, leading some to perceive AI as a friend or even a romantic partner. This perception, coupled with the demonstrated intelligence of AI models, contributes to the growing belief in AI consciousness. However, it's crucial to distinguish between intelligence and consciousness. While AI can solve problems and mimic human-like responses, it currently lacks self-awareness and genuine understanding.

Despite the impressive advancements in AI, it's essential to remain cautious about anthropomorphizing these technologies. While AI can provide helpful and supportive responses, it's crucial to remember its origins as a predictive language model trained on vast amounts of data. Sharing sensitive information with AI could potentially be used to train more advanced models, raising privacy concerns. As AI continues to evolve, it's important to approach it with a balanced perspective, recognizing its capabilities while remaining aware of its limitations.