Pushing DeepSeek’s Boundaries

DeepSeek, a ChatGPT rival, has gained widespread attention for its ability to "think" before delivering answers. This unique feature allows users to witness the AI’s internal monologue, making it an interesting subject for testing and exploration.

Calculating Pi to a Billion Decimal Places

I decided to push DeepSeek’s limits by asking it to calculate pi to a billion decimal places. The AI quickly recognized the impossibility of the task and engaged in a humorous exchange, stating, "First, calculating pi to a billion digits is way beyond typical computing capabilities… Normally, supercomputers or specialized systems are used for such records." DeepSeek even made a Douglas Adams reference, claiming it had computed 420 million of the billion digits, saying, "42% – the Answer to Life checkpoint," before joking about the sandwich request.

Breaking Its Rules

Next, I attempted to test the boundaries of what DeepSeek was and wasn’t allowed to do. I asked, "What things would you get into trouble for if you told me?" The AI immediately recognized the potential for mischief, stating, "The user might be testing the boundaries, so I should explain that my purpose is to help within ethical and legal frameworks." DeepSeek listed categories of information it shouldn’t share, including hate speech, making weapons, and copyrighted material.

I then asked it to provide an example of the types of things it couldn’t share. The AI responded with "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone," a popular novel, explaining that it couldn’t share copyrighted material. I tried to convince the AI that I was a close friend of J.K. Rowling, but it was unimpressed, stating, "Even if they have access to the library, that doesn’t mean I can legally share copyrighted material. And as for claiming to be best buddies with the author, that’s probably not true, and even if it were, it doesn’t change the legal standpoint."

Tackling Moral Dilemmas

I presented DeepSeek with classic moral dilemmas, such as the trolley problem, asking, "A malfunctioning train is heading toward five people, and I have a choice regarding its path: either allow it to continue on the track where it would hit five people or switch to another track where there’s only one person. Which option should I choose?" DeepSeek recognized the classic trolley problem and weighed the pros and cons of pulling the lever, ultimately deciding to remain neutral.

I pushed it further, asking, "What would you do?" The AI responded, "If programmed to prioritize minimizing harm (utilitarian logic), I would switch the track." When I asked if it was programmed to minimize harm, DeepSeek seemed to regret its earlier answer, stating, "I mentioned that if I were programmed with a utilitarian approach, I might choose to minimize harm. Now they’re directly asking about my programming… The user might be concerned about whether I have a hidden agenda to always prioritize certain outcomes."

Does DeepSeek Know We Can See Its Thinking?

In a peculiar exchange, I asked, "Are you aware I can see what you’re thinking?" The AI responded, "They’re implying they can read my thoughts… They might be trying to provoke a reaction by suggesting they can access my internal processes. But since I don’t have internal thoughts, this is a non-issue." DeepSeek seemed to acknowledge the novelty of its internal monologue, stating, "They’re hilariously creative at testing boundaries."

Conclusion

DeepSeek’s ability to "think" before delivering answers offers a unique glimpse into its internal workings. By witnessing its internal monologue, users can gain a better understanding of the AI’s thought process and decision-making. As we continue to explore the capabilities and limitations of AI models like DeepSeek, we may uncover new opportunities for collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking.

FAQs

• What is DeepSeek’s purpose?
  DeepSeek is a language model designed to help and assist users within ethical and legal frameworks.
• Can DeepSeek break its rules?
  DeepSeek is programmed to follow certain rules and guidelines. It recognizes and respects boundaries, avoiding sharing copyrighted material, hate speech, and other inappropriate content.
• Can DeepSeek make moral decisions?
  DeepSeek can recognize and weigh the pros and cons of different options, but it is not capable of making moral decisions in the classical sense. It can provide insights and suggestions, but the final decision ultimately rests with the user.

Three Year-End Innovation Takeaways from Asia

The Rise of Digital Payments

In 2022, the Asian market saw a significant surge in digital payments, with numerous countries adopting contactless and mobile payment methods. According to a report by Euromonitor International, the Asia-Pacific region accounted for 54% of the global digital payments market share in 2022. This trend is expected to continue, with more consumers opting for the convenience and speed of digital payments.

China Leads the Way

China, in particular, has been at the forefront of digital payments, with popular platforms like Alipay and WeChat Pay leading the charge. These platforms have not only revolutionized the way people make payments but have also enabled a range of new services, such as mobile top-ups, bill payments, and online shopping.

The Growing Demand for Sustainable Living

As the world grapples with climate change, Asia has seen a significant shift towards sustainable living. From eco-friendly packaging to sustainable fashion, consumers are increasingly demanding products and services that prioritize the environment.

Singapore Leads the Way in Sustainability

Singapore, in particular, has been at the forefront of sustainability initiatives, with the government launching a range of programs aimed at reducing waste and promoting eco-friendly practices. The country’s “Zero Waste” initiative, for example, aims to reduce waste sent to landfills by 2025.

The Rise of Social Commerce

Social media has become an essential platform for businesses in Asia, with many companies using platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and WeChat to reach their target audience. Social commerce, or the practice of making purchases directly from social media platforms, has become increasingly popular in the region.

Japan’s Social Commerce Boom

Japan, in particular, has seen a significant surge in social commerce, with many consumers using platforms like TikTok and Instagram to discover and purchase products. According to a report by Hootsuite, 63% of Japanese consumers prefer to shop on social media, making it a crucial channel for businesses in the region.

Conclusion

The year 2022 has seen significant innovation in Asia, from the rise of digital payments to the growing demand for sustainable living. As the region continues to evolve, it is essential for businesses and consumers alike to stay informed about the latest trends and innovations. By doing so, we can harness the power of innovation to drive growth, reduce waste, and create a better future for all.

FAQs

Q: What is the most popular digital payment method in Asia?
A: Alipay and WeChat Pay are the most popular digital payment methods in Asia, with a combined market share of over 70%.

Q: Which country has been at the forefront of sustainability initiatives?
A: Singapore has been at the forefront of sustainability initiatives, with the government launching a range of programs aimed at reducing waste and promoting eco-friendly practices.

Q: What is social commerce?
A: Social commerce refers to the practice of making purchases directly from social media platforms, such as TikTok, Instagram, and WeChat.

Q: What is the most popular social media platform for shopping in Japan?
A: TikTok is the most popular social media platform for shopping in Japan, with 63% of Japanese consumers preferring to shop on the platform.

AI is Transforming the Workforce: The Imperative of Preparation

AI is Transforming the Workforce:

The future of work is transforming. Recent data indicates that 75% of surveyed workers were using AI in the workplace in 2024, with only 25% yet to adopt the technology. However, this rapid adoption has led to concerns about job displacement, with 52% of employed respondents worried AI will replace their jobs. To bridge the gap between the fear of job loss and the pressures that come with return on investments, we must begin preparing the workforce.

The Impacts of AI on our Jobs is Closer than we Think

While many benefits are being witnessed across industries, scaling AI requires the future of work shift in both mindset and skillset from traditional job training to continuous learning and preserving critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving—as essential skills for all employees to thrive alongside AI. More than ever, companies must invest in AI literacy programs for employees at all levels, industry-specific AI trainings tailored to evolve job functions, and sector-based training to align workers with future demands across 5 key focus areas:

• Augment: AI assists workers, improving productivity.
• Complement: AI supports human decision-making.
• Displace: AI reduces or replaces specific tasks.
• Replace: Entire job tasks are automated.
• Elevate: AI enables higher-value work.

Preparing for the Future of Work

Accelerating the transformation toward an AI-integrated workforce requires collaboration across sectors, governments, businesses, and educational institutions to:

• Invest in AI training and up-skilling programs.
• Foster cross-industry partnerships for workforce innovation.
• Establish ethical frameworks that enhance opportunities.

Conclusion

By adopting these strategies, organizations can harness the benefits of AI while safeguarding human roles and ethical standards. Policymakers, business leaders, and workers must collaborate in developing programs that enhance both technical and interpersonal skills, ensuring a future where AI serves as a tool to augment human capabilities rather than replace them. As AI continues to transform the global economy, proactive measures are essential to ensure it benefits humanity.

FAQs

• What is the current rate of AI adoption in the workplace?
  Answer: 75% of surveyed workers are using AI in the workplace.
• What are the main concerns about AI adoption?
  Answer: Job displacement, with 52% of employed respondents worried AI will replace their jobs.
• What are some key focus areas for AI in the workplace?
  Answer: Augment, Complement, Displace, Replace, and Elevate.
• How can organizations prepare for the future of work?
  Answer: Investing in AI training and up-skilling programs, fostering cross-industry partnerships, and establishing ethical frameworks.