Cole Short Co-Authors AI Journal Article on Leadership, Wisdom, and the Future of Work

As artificial intelligence continues to reshape industries and redefine the workplace, Pepperdine Graziadio Business School faculty member Cole Short has contributed to a timely and thought-provoking piece in The AI Journal. The article, co-authored with leading experts, examines how AI’s growing influence challenges traditional leadership models and the design of work itself.

Central to the piece is the distinction between knowledge and wisdom, while AI systems excel at processing data and recognizing patterns, they lack the discernment, empathy, and moral responsibility required for wise decision-making. Short and his co-authors argue that effective leadership in the AI era must combine practical wisdom (phronesis) with leadership humility, ensuring that technological innovation aligns with human values such as fairness, justice, and accountability.

The article also emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence (EQ) and cultural intelligence (CQ) as complementary to technical proficiency. These qualities help leaders navigate complex, diverse, and uncertain environments, areas where AI cannot replace human judgment.

By offering practical steps for organizations, from rethinking job design to embedding ethical frameworks, Short and his colleagues position AI not as a replacement for human capability but as a tool for augmenting human creativity, empathy, and wisdom.

The piece underscores a critical message: the future of work will depend not only on technological advancement, but also on how leaders choose to guide their organizations with humility, responsibility, and a commitment to human flourishing.

Read the full article here.