Human beings have always strived to expand their capabilities through technology, thereby increasing their freedom and autonomy. The Enlightenment ideal of liberating humanity from the constraints of nature takes on a new dimension in the age of artificial intelligence (AI). But a fundamental question arises: will AI lead us toward greater personal freedom, or will its development gradually result in a new form of dependence on systems we no longer fully understand or control?
This contribution presents arguments supporting the thesis that AI can enhance individual autonomy: access to knowledge becomes faster and more equal, routine tasks are delegated to machines, allowing for more time for creativity; decision-making processes can become more inclusive, and global communication is facilitated through real-time translation across languages.
On the other hand, we will also highlight critical perspectives that warn against the dangers of mass manipulation, the decline of critical thinking, increased surveillance of individuals, the weakening of interpersonal relationships, and growing technological dependency. This contribution will reflect on the tension between these opposing dynamics and explore their implications for the ethical understanding of human freedom in a digital age.