Rethinking dualism: exploring the opportunities and limits of a ‘third space’ in human-machine interaction

This paper explores a new perspective on the relationship between human intelligence and artificial intelligence (AI), challenging the traditional dualistic and competitive view. Drawing on the concept of a “third space” – inspired by postcolonial and philosophical theories such as those of Homi K. Bhabha and Donna Haraway – this study examines how co-creation can become a symbiotic process in which humans and AI enhance each other’s capabilities. By analyzing the ontological differences between data-based processing and conceptual understanding, we argue that competition between human and artificial intelligence is a false paradigm. Through concrete examples of textual and visual co-crafting, the paper highlights how AI can serve as a creative partner in generating new forms of “distributed intelligence.” However, we also critically examine the power dynamics, control mechanisms, and potential for digital colonialism that characterize current AI deployment. The paper concludes by proposing that AI should not be seen as a replacement for human intelligence but as a collaborative entity that requires democratic governance to foster positive and sustainable change.