In a recent LinkedIn post, Steven Bartlett explores the growing concern around artificial intelligence and asserts that the future value lies not in AI’s capabilities, but in the uniquely human elements that AI cannot replicate. He argues that as AI becomes more pervasive, the demand for authentic human experience will surge, creating new opportunities for individuals and businesses that embrace their humanity.
Bartlett opens by expressing a sense of disillusionment with the current state of social media, which he feels is becoming increasingly soulless due to AI-generated content and interactions. He observes a homogenization of online expression, stating:
“I scroll social media these days and it genuinely feels soulless. The posts are AI. The comments are AI. The same writing style, the same format, the same emptiness.”
The Commoditization of Content and the Value of Scarcity
A central theme in Bartlett’s analysis is the concept of scarcity and its relationship to value. He posits that AI’s ability to generate vast amounts of content at minimal cost will inevitably lead to a devaluation of that content. As AI floods the digital landscape with predictable outputs, the unique qualities that make content compelling will become rare and, therefore, more prized.
According to Bartlett, AI can mimic the outward appearance of human creation, but it cannot authentically capture the essence of lived experience. He uses the analogy of Formula 1 racing to illustrate this point:
“Nobody would watch F1 if there wasn’t a human in the driver’s seat. It’s the human that creates the emotion and it’s the emotion that creates everything else.”
This emotional resonance, born from human journeys, mistakes, and unfiltered moments, is what Bartlett believes AI fundamentally cannot commoditize. He contends that this inherent human quality is precisely why he is investing heavily in human-centric endeavors.
The Bifurcation of Social Media Engagement
Bartlett points to a significant trend observed by the Financial Times, indicating a decline in social media usage among young people in 2022. He extrapolates this trend, suggesting that in a future where AI possesses an intimate understanding of individuals and exploits psychological vulnerabilities, social media usage will bifurcate. He envisions two distinct paths:
- One group will retreat further into the curated perfection offered by algorithms.
- Another group will actively seek out genuine human connection, even if it comes at a premium.
This predicted shift underscores Bartlett’s conviction that authenticity will become a highly sought-after commodity. He sees this as a pivotal moment, suggesting that the prevailing trend of leaning into AI might be the wrong direction for those seeking lasting value.
Building for the Human Element: Steven Bartlett’s steven.com
Bartlett’s vision is embodied in his venture, steven.com. He explains the platform’s mission as empowering creators, whom he views as the modern embodiment of media companies, investors, entrepreneurs, and community organizers. The core idea is to provide infrastructure for trusted individuals to build their own empires and foster genuine, in-person connections.
His advice to those concerned about the rise of AI is direct and actionable. He urges them to identify the irreplaceably human aspects of their work.
“My advice to anyone worried about AI? The question you should be asking yourself is what part of what you’re building is irreplaceably human? What do you offer that can’t be automated? What requires your lived experience, judgement earned through fuck-ups, vulnerability and emotion?”
In conclusion, Bartlett advocates for a contrarian approach: while the world may be rushing towards AI-driven efficiency, he believes the true future lies in doubling down on the imperfect, the emotional, and the uniquely human. As he puts it, “Everyone is going left, now is the time to go right!!” This strategic pivot towards authentic human connection, he argues, is where lasting value will be found in the age of artificial intelligence.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Steven Bartlett on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on December 1, 2025 | View original post on LinkedIn →