The Human Floor: Why AI Raises—Not Lowers—The Minimum Capability Required to Function in Modern Civilization
For the First Time in History, Technology Increases Rather Than Decreases the Cognitive Baseline Necessary for Economic Participation, Social Function, and Personal Autonomy—And Billions Risk Falling Below It Every previous technology lowered the bar. This one raises it. September 2024. A workforce development center in Jakarta. Maria, 32, works in customer service. She’s competent—handles complaints … The Human Floor: Why AI Raises—Not Lowers—The Minimum Capability Required to Function in Modern Civilization