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Picture the cockpit of an aircraft. The pilot checks the instruments to safely guide the plane aloft on her daily route. Every week, ground control uploads software to make the instruments a little better. At first, they just display more accurate data. Then they start to help interpret the instrument readings and offer guidance on how to operate the controls. Within a few months, these nudges and gentle recommendations are essentially flying the plane. The pilot holding the steering column retains her illusion of control but most decisions are effectively made before she even becomes aware of them.
TL;DR
- Aircraft instruments are updated weekly with new software.
- Initial updates improve data accuracy.
- Subsequent updates offer interpretation and operational guidance.
- Over time, software nudges and recommendations lead to automated flight control.
- Pilots retain an illusion of control, unaware that decisions are pre-made.