an essay draft

I wrote this in response to a prompt from MasterClass Executive and still want to revise it:

I am telling you about my now. Today is the deadline for this response. Working on it lets me better understand my personal workstyle and its underlying processes, systems, and algorithms.  I am most curious about whether ethics is the most important criterion for anything, including admission into this program. My motivation is that my effort strengthens my commitment to truth, kindness, and stewardship. This matters to me because I have learned that curiosity without structure risks a rabbit hole that captures not only interest but too much time. That is an Alice in Wonderland reference, as I share the same name and a willingness to question norms. 

Likewise, the emerging coded world amplified by artificial intelligence must be challenged by humans with excellent character. I hope I have that character. An old friend once described me as the “responsible adult friend” who considers all “contingencies” and handles “hiccups without complaint.” I also know I struggle with curiosity and character when overwhelmed. Which way is forward and which way is a trap of effort? Ethics becomes frustrating because there may not be any guarantee of right answers. It’s possible that no artificial intelligence will ever be perfect. Regarding the role of artificial intelligence in my workstyle, I believe: kill switches and backstops are essential; training solely on historical data can perpetuate bias; cause-and-effect logic matters; data filters reduce noise and avoid waste; and we should never underestimate the potential for harm.

My deepest understanding though is the necessity of rest. Our modern society seems to prioritize rush over rest. I wonder whether that makes it more difficult to distinguish dreams from delusions.  Are we having beautiful dreams that can improve reality or are we having desperate delusions to escape reality?

Many thanks for your consideration.