Darian Vargas analyzes the real impact of Artificial Intelligence in the face of current crises
In a recent analysis on the role of technology in modern society, telecommunications engineer Darian Vargas put the real risks of artificial intelligence (AI) into perspective. Unlike the apocalyptic scenarios that often dominate conversations about the future of machines, Vargas emphasized that there are immediate issues, such as the fentanyl crisis, that represent a much more tangible and lethal threat to the population in this decade.
Fentanyl is going to kill more people in this last decade than artificial intelligence. I want that to be very clear in the mind of every single Dominican.
Darian Vargas, telematic engineer.
AI in conflicts and social media
The expert clarified that, although the power of AI should not be underestimated, it is necessary to differentiate between warnings about a supposed autonomy of machines and the current human use of these tools. Vargas pointed out that the technology is already being used in armed conflicts, such as the confrontation between Russia and Ukraine, where intelligent systems are used for military purposes in real situations.
Beyond wars, the specialist warned about the influence of algorithms on digital platforms. According to Vargas, constant exposure to certain content can alter human behavior, being linked to critical social issues such as harassment and suicidal behavior, which requires constant vigilance over the design of these systems.
Development opportunities and human limits
Not everything in the landscape is negative. For the engineer, AI is a transformative tool that offers great advantages in key sectors:
- Health and medical tourism.
- Software development and process automation.
- Advanced prediction systems.
However, Vargas was emphatic in pointing out that there are insurmountable limits to automation. In the pharmaceutical sector, for example, although AI can accelerate drug discovery, the clinical study phases still strictly depend on human supervision and validation, a process that cannot be replaced by algorithms.
The challenge of technological training in the Dominican Republic
When evaluating the local situation, the expert acknowledged the efforts of the Dominican State in public policies aimed at digital training, citing initiatives such as “Smart DR” and collaborations with international entities. However, he warned that success should not be measured solely by the number of certificates issued.
For Alofoke Deportes, Vargas’s message is clear: the true challenge is to transform technological education into concrete results. The ultimate goal must be the effective insertion of professionals into the labor market, ensuring that the knowledge acquired translates into greater productivity, economic well-being, and real development for the country.
