20美元，撕开人类思维鸿沟，宾大教授警告AI隐形阶层战

Core Insights - The article emphasizes that the revolution of AI lies not in the algorithms but in the users, highlighting a new social stratification created by AI usage [1][3][4] - It points out that AI has transitioned from an experimental tool to a new social infrastructure, leading to different levels of user engagement and capabilities [3][4][6] AI Usage and Social Stratification - Approximately 10% of the global population uses AI weekly, indicating a significant shift in human interaction with technology [4][6] - Users of AI tools like ChatGPT exhibit varied engagement levels, with 49% using it for simple inquiries and 40% for task execution [6][10] - The introduction of subscription tiers (free, $20, and $200) has created a new social structure, where the $20 tier represents a significant threshold for deeper engagement with AI [15][18][20] Subscription Tiers and User Capabilities - The AI ecosystem is categorized into three tiers: free users with limited functionality, $20 users unlocking advanced models, and $200 users targeting professional and research applications [18][22] - Free users often operate in a limited "Auto mode," while paid users access more sophisticated models and capabilities [11][12][23] - The distinction between free and paid users is not just about access but also about cognitive engagement and the ability to collaborate with AI [12][19][25] Cognitive Engagement and AI Collaboration - The article discusses how the way users interact with AI reflects their cognitive structures, with paid users developing a collaborative mindset [12][26][41] - Users at the $200 tier engage in complex workflows, allowing AI to execute multi-step tasks, thus transforming their role from mere users to collaborators [29][38][40] - The emergence of "AI middle class" signifies a shift where users leverage AI as a cognitive partner rather than just a tool [16][26][41] Future Implications of AI Usage - The article suggests that the future of AI will depend on users' ability to collaborate with AI, moving beyond simple question-and-answer interactions [60][62] - It highlights the importance of developing an "AI intuition," which is crucial for effective collaboration and understanding AI's capabilities [44][46][56] - Ultimately, the article posits that the real divide in AI usage will not be based on economic factors but on the ability to think and work alongside AI [58][66]