# The Role of Large Language Models in Reflecting Human Cognition - Synthesis B By:: [[Brian Heath]] 2025-09-11 The utilization of LLMs and their impact on the future of humanity has little to do with LLMs but everything to do with the future development of society. One could argue for or against LLMs just as one argues for or against the internet, cars, genetically engineered crops, or the adoption of a new universal language. These technologies will always exist within the context of the society in which they currently exist. Here, the concept of society encompasses government, economics, culture, education, values, power, the elite, and beyond. Under any societal dimension, technologies are both good and bad, if one decides to make a value judgement. This choice of value judgement is itself an indication of the societal condition that clouds the future and makes most unable to question what lies beyond the clouds. This is not to say there isn't more or less goodness in choices. Perhaps the simplest assessment is whether suffering at all levels is increased or decreased as an outcome. However, even this is flawed and reflects the value trap inherent in our society. Beyond the cloud is the question: Is any suffering acceptable? I'm not a delusional, idealistic flowerchild who thinks we can ever eliminate suffering, but it doesn't mean that it shouldn't be the goal. So, how does one get there, and what in the world does this have to do with LLMs? We get there by developing ourselves and actively developing society towards that end. We develop by thinking and creating the capacity for more and better thinking. Then we take action in solidarity. LLMs likely provide the best chance at increasing more and better thinking capacity since the industrial revolution, but without the necessary economic revolution coming first. Ultimately, one will need to happen, but we haven't created the space for the development and thinking required. Those already on the other side have the responsibility to expedite the use of LLMs to be a development unlock, rather than a trap that perpetuates the suffering, which is something that will happen if those on the other side choose to do nothing. #### Related Items [[Artificial Intelligence]] [[Large Language Models]] [[Society]] [[Revolution]] [[Development]] [[Economics]] [[Thinking]] [[Dialogue - The Role of Large Language Models in Reflecting Human Cognition]]