In 2024, AI has seen remarkable advancements, particularly in fields like programming and mathematics. Over time, I’ve often heard people say, “AI has already replaced you as a programmer. Soon, we won’t need humans to write code—AI will handle it all.” However, after a year of deeply integrating AI into my workflow—especially using highly capable tools like Claude—I can confidently say: No, that time has not come yet.
As a programmer whose primary focus is solving problems, I should theoretically be among the first to be replaced by AI. Yet, the reality is that AI still falls short of replacing me—and certainly falls even shorter when it comes to replacing creative programmers.
Here’s my why:
AI Still Lacks the Ability to Think Independently
Current AI models lack true thinking or reasoning capabilities. What they present as “thought” is really just a simulation, entirely driven by user instructions.
AI Lacks Originality
Today’s AI systems are unable to produce original ideas. They operate by synthesizing existing information rather than innovating something entirely new.
AI Lacks Design Skills
Designing solutions or systems requires a level of foresight and intentionality that AI simply doesn’t possess.
AI Lacks Creativity
Creativity involves generating novel concepts and pushing boundaries—qualities that are beyond the scope of current AI technologies.
AI Struggles to Finish the Final Mile
AI often fails to complete the last 20% of a task, the part where coherence and consistency are critical. This is where human problem-solving and iterative thinking shine, and where AI’s limitations become most apparent.