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The Human Edge: Exploring Cognitive Capabilities in Public Administration beyond AI's Reach - A Systematic Literature Review

DOI: 10.18535/sshj.v8i09.1301· Pages: 4875-4889· Vol. 8, No. 09, (2024)· Published: September 6, 2024
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Abstract

This systematic literature review examines the unique cognitive capabilities of humans in public administration that currently surpass artificial intelligence (AI) systems, anchored in Human Capital Theory. Through comprehensive desktop research synthesizing scholarly literature from public administration, cognitive science, and AI fields between 2010 and 2024, this study investigates key areas where human cognition demonstrates superiority in public service contexts. These areas include emotional intelligence, ethical decision-making, adaptive leadership, cultural competence, and creative problem-solving in complex policy environments. The review aims to delineate the current 'cognitive frontier' in public administration - the boundary between human and artificial intelligence capabilities - while emphasizing aspects such as contextual understanding, intuitive decision-making, and value judgment in governance, which remain challenging for AI to replicate. Findings underscore the intricate nature of human cognitive capital in public service, contributing to the ongoing dialogue about the role of human intelligence in an increasingly AI-augmented administrative landscape. The study concludes with a discussion on the implications of these findings for public sector human resource development, AI integration strategies, and the future of public administration education.

Keywords

Support systemYoung school going mothersTeenage pregnancyMother learners

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Author details
Fred Omweri
Kampala International University, Dept. Public Administration and Development Studies, Western Campus-Uganda
✉ Corresponding Author
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