Navigating Leadership in the Age of AI with Colonel Mayer

Inside West Point: Ideas That Impact

In this episode of Inside West Point: Ideas that Impact, Colonel Chris Mayer from the Department of Law and Philosophy at West Point discusses the importance of balancing technical competence with human skills in the age of AI. Mayer shares his extensive military and academic background, highlighting his work in integrating future force capabilities and his role in educating cadets to become leaders of character. The conversation explores his recent article on thriving in an AI-dominated world, the value of critical thinking, and how the humanities play a crucial role in developing well-rounded leaders. Mayer also delves into the challenges and opportunities posed by emerging technologies and the importance of continual learning and adaptability for future officers.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:16 Colonel Chris Mayer's Background

01:46 Discussion on AI and Human Skills

03:30 The Role of Critical Thinking

05:09 Challenges and Future of AI in Leadership

07:21 Balancing Technology and Human Skills

19:41 Philosophy and Technology Intersection

22:28 Operational Army Experience

26:13 Veteran Insights on Counterinsurgency

27:11 The Role of AI in Multinational Trust Building

29:12 AI-Enabled Officers: Balancing Technology and Human Skills

30:03 West Point's Educational Model and Critical Thinking

33:29 Fostering Intellectual Maturity in Cadets

35:49 Extracurricular Activities and Lifelong Learning

38:25 Transforming Academic Structures at West Point

41:51 Interdisciplinary Approaches to Military Professionalism

46:00 The Value of Teaching and Lifelong Commitment to West Point

48:51 Rapid Fire Questions and Final Thoughts

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• · Learn more about the Department of English and Philosophy: https://www.westpoint.edu/academics/departments/english-and-philosophy

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Credits:

• Guest: Colonel Chris Mayer: (https://www.westpoint.edu/english-and-philosophy/profile/christopher_mayer)

• Host: Brigadier General Shane Reeves: (http://linkedin.com/in/shane-reeves-7950a31b3)

• Recording: West Point Public Affairs-Visual Information

• Production: Growth Network Podcasts: (https://growthnetworkpodcasts.com)

• Publisher: West Point Press (https://westpointpress.com)

This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.