In a recent LinkedIn post, Ben Eubanks issues a cautionary note regarding the widespread adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the workplace, drawing a historical parallel to illustrate his concerns about uncritical acceptance of new methodologies.
Eubanks frames his argument by recounting an anecdote about a doctor who believed he had a foolproof method for diagnosing a disease. This doctor’s approach involved examining a patient’s tongue, then examining the tongue of another person with the same hand, and subsequently diagnosing the second person with the illness. Eubanks highlights the obvious flaw in this method from a modern perspective: the doctor was actively spreading the disease.
“To us, it’s obvious. He’s GIVING people germs.”
This historical example serves as a foundation for Eubanks’s central thesis about AI. He suggests that, much like the medical professionals of that era who might have seen the doctor’s flawed method as revolutionary, contemporary business leaders risk embracing AI without sufficient critical evaluation.
The Perils of Unquestioning AI Adoption
Ben Eubanks argues that the current enthusiasm surrounding AI could lead to similar retrospective regret. He expresses a strong hope that the business world will not look back on the current period with the same sense of foolishness that we now associate with the flawed medical practice he described.
As Eubanks puts it:
“He then unveiled his secret method. He went up to an infected person and asked them to open their mouth. He felt their tongue, and then he walks three steps away and asked the other person to open their mouth. He felt their tongue with the exact same hand, and then proclaimed that they had the illness too.”
The core of his concern, Eubanks implies, is not necessarily AI itself, but the manner in which it is being implemented and perceived. The anecdote suggests a potential for widespread adoption based on superficial understanding or a rush to adopt the latest trend without rigorous testing or consideration of potential negative consequences.
Looking Back with Regret?
Eubanks’s post prompts reflection on the rapid integration of AI tools across various industries. He questions whether the current drive to incorporate AI is being guided by genuine understanding and strategic necessity, or by a fear of being left behind.
He elaborates on this sentiment:
“Fast forward 10 years and we’re looking back… I really hope we don’t feel that foolish when we think about how we allowed and encouraged AI to spread and become the holy grail of work.”
By comparing the uncritical acceptance of AI to a dangerous medical practice, Ben Eubanks urges business leaders to approach AI implementation with a more discerning and critical eye. His message is a call for thoughtful strategy and a deep understanding of AI’s implications, rather than a blind pursuit of technological advancement.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Ben Eubanks on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on August 4, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →