The global conversation around artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly evolving, with some of the world’s top executives now predicting that machines could rival or even surpass human-level reasoning within the next five years. That timeline, once seen as futuristic, is now a point of serious debate in corporate boardrooms, tech conferences, and policy circles.
But as leaders grapple with how to adapt to this accelerating future, one voice is urging the next generation to prepare differently. Daniel Lubetzky, billionaire entrepreneur, philanthropist, and investor on Shark Tank, is warning Gen Z that the way to stay relevant in an AI-driven age isn’t just about learning how to code or chase the latest digital trend—it’s about turning to timeless human wisdom.
CEOs See a Ticking Clock
Recent surveys of Fortune 500 and tech CEOs show a growing consensus: artificial general intelligence (AGI)—the point at which AI can perform intellectual tasks at the level of a human—may arrive within the next half-decade. Companies are racing to adopt machine learning tools, automate operations, and integrate AI into everything from customer service to advanced research.
The implications are profound: job markets could shift dramatically, decision-making might be delegated to algorithms, and even the creative industries could face disruption. For young professionals entering the workforce, the competition may no longer just be other humans—but machines.
Lubetzky’s Warning to Gen Z
Lubetzky, best known as the founder of KIND Snacks, has built a career blending entrepreneurship with social impact. On Shark Tank, he frequently pushes contestants to think beyond short-term profits toward building businesses with purpose and long-term resilience.
Speaking recently about the coming AI age, Lubetzky delivered an unexpected piece of advice: Gen Z should spend less time scrolling TikTok and more time reading the works of Greek philosophers.
Why? Because while AI may master tasks, patterns, and even communication, it cannot easily replicate the depth of human wisdom, critical thinking, and moral reasoning that comes from engaging with philosophy and history. “Machines may calculate faster than us,” Lubetzky said, “but they cannot yet teach us how to be human.”
Philosophy as a Competitive Edge
Lubetzky points to philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, whose works remain relevant precisely because they explore timeless questions of ethics, justice, and meaning. In his view, these skills will be essential in a world where AI handles much of the technical workload.
- Critical Thinking: Learning to analyze complex issues beyond surface-level answers.
- Ethics: Understanding right and wrong in a world where AI could make life-or-death decisions.
- Creativity: Building connections across disciplines in ways that algorithms cannot.
- Resilience: Drawing wisdom from centuries of human struggle and triumph.
For Lubetzky, the “human edge” lies not in competing with machines on speed or efficiency, but in cultivating qualities that make us uniquely human.
Beyond TikTok: The Digital Distraction Problem
Lubetzky’s comments also reflect a growing concern among educators and business leaders about the attention economy. Platforms like TikTok, while entertaining and sometimes educational, have been criticized for fostering shortened attention spans, addictive scrolling habits, and superficial engagement.
For Gen Z—many of whom are entering college or early career stages—the risk is that hours spent on bite-sized content come at the expense of deeper learning and critical reflection. In Lubetzky’s view, this could leave them vulnerable in a world where employers increasingly value adaptability, depth, and purpose-driven thinking.
The Bigger Picture: AI + Human Values
While CEOs are preparing for an AI-infused future, Lubetzky’s warning is a reminder that technology alone doesn’t shape society—people do. How we use AI, regulate it, and integrate it into our lives will depend on the human choices behind the algorithms.
By grounding themselves in philosophy and humanistic thinking, Gen Z could help ensure that the next wave of AI innovation is guided not just by efficiency and profit, but by wisdom and empathy.
Conclusion
The next five years could mark a historic turning point in human history if AI begins to rival human intelligence. But as Daniel Lubetzky suggests, the key to thriving in that future won’t just be keeping up with technology—it will be cultivating the timeless human qualities that technology cannot replace.
For Gen Z, the message is clear: close the TikTok app once in a while, open a philosophy book, and prepare not just to survive in the age of AI—but to lead it.
