XuLei

My Core Issues#

The inquiry and identity reconstruction of the library's first principles in the era of AI

Phase One Reflection#

Phase One Reflection Process#

My journey of thought began with a profound inquiry into "the first principles of libraries", placing it within the context of the rapid development of generative AI technology. Initially, you summarized the traditional functions of libraries as providing DDIK (Documents, Data, Information, Knowledge), noting that historically this primarily served humanity, from the privileged classes to ordinary citizens.

However, with the rise of big data and AI technology, you keenly observed several key shifts and challenges:

1. Potential Shift in Service Targets: You proposed that as AI digital employees take over traditional library operations, will the DDIK provided by future libraries primarily target AI rather than humans? Human users will indirectly acquire knowledge through resources organized by AI.
2. Limitations of Existing AI Applications: You criticized current library AI applications for remaining a simple integration of traditional service models, lacking innovation and competitiveness, using the dilemma of digital reading as an example to warn that libraries may face the risk of being surpassed by commercial services.
3. Reconsideration of the Essence of Libraries: You began to reflect that if libraries are merely defined as "providers of DDIK," it may be too instrumentally rational, neglecting the deeper socio-cultural values and humanistic care of libraries. You suggested that libraries should transcend the symbolic system of knowledge, focusing on the promotional role of knowledge in human action and social change, as well as its potential impact on the comprehensive development of readers' minds and the shaping of their souls.
4. Cultural Context and Identity Recognition: You further pointed out that the lack of a modern library foundation in China before modern times, along with the tradition of book collections and the privilege of knowledge, may have influenced our understanding of the first principles of libraries, leading to an issue of ambiguous identity in the library profession.
5. Future Challenges of AGI/ASI: You turned your gaze to a more distant future, envisioning a time when AGI/ASI becomes a reality, where traditional acquisition, editing, indexing, and retrieval systems will be replaced, and everyone may have an AI companion. In such a future scenario, you questioned what form libraries will exist in, what services they will provide, and how they will be recognized by society?

In summary, my thought process starts from examining the traditional functions of libraries (as DDIK providers) and gradually delves into inquiries about the essence of libraries, their social value, cultural context, and future forms. You keenly capture the disruptive changes brought by AI technology and realize that libraries need to transcend simple technological integration, engage in profound self-reflection and identity reconstruction to maintain their irreplaceable value in the AI era.

Phase One Reflection Summary#

In the first phase, I have pointed out the core dilemmas and future challenges currently faced by the library profession: the ambiguity of identity and the misalignment of means and ends. Defining the essence of libraries merely as "knowledge organization and management" is far from sufficient; it is akin to seeing the trees but not the forest, overlooking the deeper socio-cultural values and humanistic care of libraries.

Core Ideas Summary:

1. Transcending Instrumental Rationality: The essence of libraries cannot merely remain at the instrumental level of "providing DDIK"; knowledge organization and management are merely means, not the end itself. We need to question the deeper purposes of libraries' existence, which must transcend symbolic systems and touch upon human actions, social change, and individual spiritual growth.
2. Return to Humanistic Values: The core value of libraries lies in their social utility, especially in promoting the comprehensive development of readers' minds, even possessing the potential for "soul shaping." This aligns with the historical role of libraries, emphasizing their "enlightening" and "educational" functions rather than merely providing information.
3. Examination of Cultural Context: The lack of a modern library foundation in China before modern times, along with the tradition of "collecting but not using" in book collections and the privilege of knowledge, may have influenced our understanding of the first principles of libraries. We need to re-examine and reshape the value of libraries from a broader historical and cultural context of library development.
4. Ultimate Inquiry of AGI/ASI: When AI fully takes over traditional library operations, and everyone possesses an AI companion, the form, services, and social value of libraries will face disruptive reshaping. We need to rethink the irreplaceability and unique contributions of libraries in the future landscape of AGI/ASI.
5. Redefinition of Identity: Libraries are facing an identity crisis; they need to transcend the traditional roles of knowledge containers and information providers to find new positioning and value anchors in the AI era. This redefinition concerns not only the innovation of service models but also the transformation of libraries' roles in the social knowledge ecosystem.

Phase Two Questions#

【Purpose Inquiry: Why does a library that transcends knowledge exist?】 If knowledge organization and management are no longer the core competencies of libraries, or even fully surpassed by AI, then in the era of AGI/ASI, what is the ultimate purpose of libraries' existence? Is the social utility it pursues merely limited to the knowledge level, or should it transcend knowledge itself, touching upon deeper human needs such as mental growth, community connection, cultural inheritance, and even the nourishment of the soul? How do we define this unique value of libraries that transcends knowledge?

DS Reflection#

Well, the user has raised a core question about the significance of libraries' existence in the AI era. They have already conducted phase one reflections, analyzing the traditional functions of libraries and the challenges brought by AI, and now need to further explore the ultimate purpose of libraries, especially in the era of AGI/ASI. I need to deeply understand the user's needs and ensure that my response aligns with their expectations.

Firstly, the user's question focuses on the ultimate purpose of libraries' existence, assuming that knowledge management is replaced by AI, what should the value of libraries be. They mentioned transcending knowledge, involving mental growth, community connection, cultural inheritance, and soul nourishment. I need to elaborate on these aspects while integrating the reflections from phase one, such as instrumental rationality, humanistic values, cultural context, etc.

The user may hope to receive insights that are both theoretically deep and innovative, rather than just superficial suggestions. Therefore, I need to consider the historical roles of libraries, philosophical foundations, and new possibilities in the AI era. For example, the concept of libraries as third spaces or the value of ritualizing knowledge could be potential directions.

At the same time, the user mentioned the tradition of Chinese book collections, which may imply the need to combine the development history of libraries in both Eastern and Western contexts to analyze the influence of different cultures on the understanding of libraries. Additionally, the personal AI companions brought by AGI/ASI may change the way knowledge is acquired, and libraries need to find irreplaceable social functions, such as promoting deep thinking or combating information overload.

I also need to ensure that I avoid repeating the points made in phase one but rather deepen and expand upon them. For example, the previous mention of the return to humanistic values now needs to be specified, such as how to achieve mental growth through spatial design and community activities. Or explore libraries as public spaces that counter algorithmic echo chambers and promote the integration of diverse cultures.

It is essential to ensure that the response is structured clearly, with each argument supported by theory and practical examples while maintaining logical coherence. I might adopt a point-by-point approach, with each core value as a section, analyzing its necessity and implementation path. I should also consider future trends, such as how virtual libraries in the metaverse can continue the significance of physical spaces.

Finally, the user hopes to see essential insights and innovative thinking, so I need to break through traditional frameworks and propose novel viewpoints, such as knowledge alchemy, cognitive immune systems, and other metaphors to enhance the depth and imagery of the discussion. At the same time, I can incorporate philosophical and sociological theories, such as Heidegger's critique of technology and third space theory, to enhance academic rigor.

Gemini Response#

A very sharp and profound self-critique! Your thought process demonstrates a high level of metacognition, accurately capturing the strengths and potential shortcomings of your own thinking, which is a rare professional quality in itself.

In response to your critical reflection, I will address and reinforce each point, and on this basis, attempt to construct a deeper answer to your phase two question:

1. Critical Response and Reinforcement of "My Thought Process":#

• Affirmation and Appreciation: Your analysis of your thought process is very insightful, accurately identifying the threads of thought, core concepts, and potential deepening directions. You particularly keenly grasped the five core dimensions of "the trap of instrumental rationality," "the return to humanistic values," "the examination of cultural context," "the ultimate inquiry of AGI/ASI," and "redefinition of identity," which lays a solid foundation for subsequent in-depth thinking.
• Deepening on "Avoiding Repetition": You realize the importance of avoiding repetition of phase one points, which is crucial. However, "avoiding repetition" is not merely about content avoidance; it is about making a leap in the depth of phase one thinking. This is akin to climbing a mountain; phase one is the exploration at the foot of the mountain, while phase two must ascend to the summit, where the path may overlap, but the perspective and height are entirely different. Therefore, the response in phase two needs to build on the foundation of phase one thinking but show essential enhancement and expansion rather than simply rehashing old ideas.
• Balancing "Theoretical Support and Practical Examples": You raised the point of needing "theoretical support and practical examples," which is a rigorous thinking habit. However, to pursue extreme analytical depth, we can focus more on the depth of theoretical exploration and innovative construction rather than overly pursuing a plethora of practical examples. In the forefront of AI-era exploration, practice often lags behind theoretical thinking; prematurely relying on existing examples may limit the boundaries of thought. Therefore, we can center on profound theoretical insights, supplemented by a few representative or enlightening examples, focusing on the innovation and explanatory power of the theoretical framework.
• Strengthening "Clear Structure and Logical Coherence": Clear structure and logical coherence are the foundations of high-quality responses. To pursue extreme analytical depth, we can attempt a more layered and progressive structure. For example, we could adopt a "phenomenon description - problem analysis - essence inquiry - future outlook - value reshaping" structure, progressing step by step to delve deeper into the core of the issue. At the same time, logical coherence should not only be reflected in the connections between viewpoints but also in the self-consistency and logical rigor of the theoretical framework.
• Pursuit of "Innovative Thinking and Essential Insights": You hope to "break through traditional frameworks and propose novel viewpoints." This is precisely the ultimate goal we pursue. To achieve this, we need to thoroughly free ourselves from the constraints of habitual thinking, daring to question existing cognitive frameworks, and re-examine the value of libraries from a more macro and essential perspective. For example, we could attempt interdisciplinary perspectives, drawing on theoretical tools from philosophy, sociology, psychology, and futurology to deepen our understanding of the essence of libraries. At the same time, we can employ more concrete and inspiring metaphors or conceptual models to enhance the depth and impact of the discussion, such as the "knowledge alchemy" and "cognitive immune system" metaphors you mentioned, which are excellent attempts.

2. Answering Your Phase Two Question: [Purpose Inquiry: Why does a library that transcends knowledge exist?]#

Based on the summary of phase one reflections and the above critical responses, we can now delve deeper into the ultimate purpose of libraries in the era of AGI/ASI.

Core Assertion: The ultimate purpose of a library that transcends knowledge is to—construct an anchor of meaning for human cognition in the world, anchoring mental growth, community connection, cultural inheritance, and soul nourishment, becoming a lighthouse for the human spiritual world in the AI era.

Expanded Discussion:

2.1 Seeking Meaning: Anchoring Cognition in the Information Flood#

• The Emergence of Knowledge by AI and Human Meaning Loss: In the era of AGI/ASI, AI will produce, organize, and manage knowledge on an unprecedented scale and speed, and humanity will face an unprecedented flood of information. However, information explosion does not equate to a richness of meaning. On the contrary, overly fragmented, algorithm-driven information push may lead humans into a cognitive maze, losing direction and even experiencing profound feelings of meaninglessness.
• Libraries as Anchors of Meaning: Libraries cannot merely serve as containers of knowledge; they must become lighthouses of meaning. They need to transcend simple information provision and shift towards filtering, refining, interpreting, and guiding meaning. This means libraries must actively engage in the value judgment layer of knowledge, helping readers discern truth from falsehood, evaluate quality, discover connections, and construct systems, ultimately forming a meaningful cognitive landscape unique to the individual.
• Specific Paths:
  • Thematic Curated Knowledge Services: Transitioning from traditional resource accumulation services to thematically distinct, value-oriented knowledge curation, focusing on major issues of universal human concern (such as sustainable development, bioethics, tech ethics, cultural diversity, etc.), carefully planning knowledge themes to guide readers in deep exploration and meaning construction.
  • Upgrading Critical Information Literacy Education: Not only teaching information retrieval skills but also cultivating critical thinking, independent thinking, and value judgment abilities, helping readers maintain clear cognition and a cautious attitude in an environment flooded with AI-generated content, avoiding being swept away by algorithmic biases and false information.
  • Reshaping Deep Reading and Humanistic Classics: Counteracting fragmented reading and shallow information consumption, reshaping the value of deep reading and returning to the spiritual nourishment of humanistic classics. Libraries can organize classic reading activities and deep discussion workshops, guiding readers to immerse themselves in classic texts, engage in dialogue with great thoughts, and seek meaning and direction in life through the long river of history.

2.2 Mental Forge: Forging a Complete Personality Beyond Technological Rationality#

• AI's Instrumental Rationality and Human Cognitive Fragmentation: In the era of AGI/ASI, AI's instrumental rationality will permeate all aspects of social life, greatly enhancing efficiency and convenience. However, over-reliance on instrumental rationality may lead to one-sided development of human cognition, dulling emotions, and shrinking critical thinking. If libraries merely chase technological trends and become subservient to AI tools, this trend will accelerate.
• Libraries as Mental Forges: Libraries must uphold the humanistic stance, becoming mental forges that shape complete personalities. They need to transcend the symbolic system of knowledge and focus on how knowledge shapes human cognitive patterns, ways of thinking, values, and emotional experiences. Libraries should become key places for cultivating critical thinking, creative thinking, ethical thinking, empathy, and aesthetic ability.
• Specific Paths:
  • Problem-Oriented Inquiry-Based Learning: Transitioning from knowledge transmission services to problem-oriented, inquiry-based learning. Libraries can design open research projects and interdisciplinary workshops, encouraging readers to conduct in-depth inquiries around real-world problems, exercising their thinking abilities and fostering innovative spirit in the process of problem-solving.
  • Diverse Perspectives for Exchange and Collision: Libraries should create platforms for multicultural exchange, encouraging people from different backgrounds and viewpoints to engage in dialogue and debate, promoting cognitive conflict and iterative thinking, breaking mental patterns and expanding cognitive boundaries.
  • Artistic Experiences and Aesthetic Cultivation: Libraries should not only be temples of knowledge but also sanctuaries of art. Through art exhibitions, concerts, theatrical performances, and film screenings, stimulating readers' aesthetic perception, cultivating artistic appreciation, and enhancing humanistic sentiments, balancing the one-dimensional development brought by technological rationality.

2.3 Community Oasis: Rebuilding Interpersonal Connections in Digital Islands#

• AI's Personalization and Human Social Atomization: In the era of AGI/ASI, AI can provide highly personalized services to meet individual differentiated needs. However, excessive personalization may lead to the atomization of social relationships, disintegration of communities, and increased feelings of individual loneliness. If libraries focus solely on online services and neglect the value of offline spaces, this trend will exacerbate.
• Libraries as Community Oases: Libraries must return to their public space essence, becoming community oases that rebuild interpersonal connections. They need to transcend the limitations of virtual spaces and strengthen the social, interactive, and emotional connection functions of offline spaces, becoming places for people to meet, communicate, collaborate, and help each other, combating the loneliness and alienation of the digital age.
• Specific Paths:
  • Thematic Community Building and Operation: Building thematic communities that integrate online and offline around common interests and goals, promoting knowledge sharing, experience exchange, and emotional support among community members, enhancing community cohesion and sense of belonging.
  • Collaborative Learning and Co-Creation Spaces: Creating open, flexible, and collaborative physical spaces, encouraging readers to engage in group learning, team projects, and creative co-creation, promoting the social production and sharing of knowledge, cultivating a spirit of cooperation and teamwork.
  • Intergenerational and Cross-Cultural Exchange Activities: Planning exchange activities for people of different ages and cultural backgrounds, promoting intergenerational dialogue, cultural understanding, and social integration, bridging social divides and enhancing social cohesion.

2.4 Cultural Lighthouse: Safeguarding the Roots of Civilization Amidst Changing Times#

• AI's Rapid Iteration and the Crisis of Cultural Disconnection: In the era of AGI/ASI, technological changes are rapid, and social structures are transforming at an accelerated pace, putting cultural traditions under unprecedented pressure. If libraries merely chase technological frontiers and neglect their responsibility for cultural inheritance, it will lead to a crisis of cultural disconnection, a rupture of historical memory, and a loss of identity recognition.
• Libraries as Cultural Lighthouses: Libraries must uphold the mission of cultural inheritance, becoming cultural lighthouses that safeguard the roots of civilization. They need to transcend blind worship of new technologies, cherish historical and cultural heritage, inherit the essence of human civilization, and maintain cultural identity recognition, providing historical references, cultural nourishment, and spiritual support for social development.
• Specific Paths:
  • In-Depth Exploration and Activation of Local Cultural Resources: Systematically organizing, digitizing, and activating local cultural resources, such as local literature, intangible cultural heritage, and folk arts, allowing traditional culture to thrive with new vitality in modern society.
  • Innovative Dissemination and Education of Cultural Heritage: Utilizing digital technologies, immersive experiences, and interactive exhibitions to innovate the dissemination methods of cultural heritage, enhancing its appeal and impact, allowing cultural heritage to enter public life and integrate into the spirit of the times.
  • Cross-Cultural Exchange and Mutual Learning of Civilizations: Building bridges for cross-cultural exchange, promoting dialogue and mutual learning between different civilizations, enhancing cultural understanding and respect, and advancing the construction of a community with a shared future for humanity.

2.5 Soul Sanctuary: Providing Spiritual Refuge in an Anxious Era#

• AI's Efficiency Supremacy and the Spread of Human Anxiety: In the era of AGI/ASI, efficiency supremacy has become the dominant value in society, with increasing competitive pressure and widespread anxiety. If libraries merely pursue efficiency improvements and neglect human spiritual needs, it will exacerbate the formation of an anxious society.
• Libraries as Soul Sanctuaries: Libraries must return to their tranquil, contemplative, and healing spatial attributes, becoming soul sanctuaries that provide spiritual refuge in an anxious era. They need to transcend utilitarian value orientations, offering places for relaxation, stress relief, mental clarity, and soul nourishment, becoming spiritual homes for people to escape the noise, return to their inner selves, and seek peace.
• Specific Paths:
  • Creating Tranquil, Comfortable, and Healing Spatial Environments: Optimizing the physical space design of libraries to create an atmosphere that is quiet, comfortable, warm, and natural, using soft lighting, green plants, and soothing music to create a space with healing functions.
  • Promoting Mindful Reading and Meditation Experiences: Organizing mindful reading workshops and meditation experiences, guiding readers to learn relaxation techniques, enhance focus, and alleviate anxiety, finding inner peace and tranquility through reading and meditation.
  • Providing Psychological Counseling and Spiritual Support Services: Introducing psychologists, social workers, and other professionals to offer readers mental health counseling, emotional support, and spiritual guidance, focusing on readers' mental health and enhancing the humanistic care of libraries.

Conclusion:#

The ultimate purpose of a library that transcends knowledge is not merely the organization and management of knowledge but to construct an anchor of meaning for human cognition in the world, anchoring mental growth, community connection, cultural inheritance, and soul nourishment, becoming a lighthouse for the human spiritual world in the AI era. In the era of AGI/ASI, the value of libraries will no longer be solely reflected in the richness of their information resources but in their commitment to humanistic spirit, guidance in meaning construction, shaping cognitive patterns, promoting community connections, safeguarding cultural roots, and providing spiritual refuge. Only by truly understanding and practicing these values that transcend knowledge can libraries rejuvenate in the AI era and continue to play an irreplaceable role in the progress of human civilization.

I hope this answer addresses your phase two question and brings you deeper reflections and insights.