During my recent travels, I noticed that the Hong Kong airport has increasingly employed automation in its customs procedures. Whereas in the past, human immigration officers would check passports and boarding passes, machines now do so. Although this post-pandemic process was smoother and more efficient, it made me wonder whether automation or even AI could eventually replace human labor altogether.
You may wonder how my experience in the airport is related to the theme of this month, which is showing understanding. In fact, this topic relates to the theme because accepting human flaws is important when we try to empathize with others. For example, when a student cannot submit their homework on time, they may offer an excuse like “my book was eaten by my dog.” As a teacher, one must decide whether to show understanding or give the student a record. In such situations, demonstrating understanding of human imperfection is crucial.
If society becomes largely automated in the future, will machines be able to understand unique situations and be flexible? Consider the scenario in which only a visa checking machine is present at customs, but a traveller left their passport on the plane. Would the machine accept their excuse and handle the situation differently?
In the film “The Terminal,” the protagonist Viktor attempts to enter New York City without a visa. Despite attempted stops by several airport guards, the head of security ultimately allows him to enter, demonstrating an act of understanding. Such cases illustrate that accepting human flaws does not mean weakness, but rather an acknowledgement of our shared humanity.
As we aspire to higher standards of living, it is important not to lose sight of our ability to show understanding and accept others’ flaws. Now I would like to end this sharing with a question: Living in a society which constantly pursues improvements and world class achievements, can we afford to prioritize material comforts over our capacity for empathy and compassion?
Wednesday, 30 July 2025