Shared Reality: Relational Intelligence as a New Perspective on AI

Our present is fragile: Fragmented realities, growing complexity, a loss of trust, and the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence challenge the way we think and act. This book reframes a fundamental question: How does reality emerge, and how can we shape it responsibly together? Based on the premise that humans are profoundly relational beings by virtue of their anthropological and evolutionary foundations, Tim A. Bohlen develops the concept of Relational Intelligence. At its core is a triad consisting of humans, social systems, and artificial intelligence: Three distinct instances of perception that collectively shape our reality today. AI is not viewed merely as a tool, but as a non-human actor that significantly transforms perception, decision-making, power dynamics, and responsibility. The book integrates anthropology, evolutionary research, systems theory, and research on perception and cognition to explore the implications for AI. It shows why depth beats mere efficiency, why relationships are more important than control, and why genuine responsibility is of higher value than speed alone. This book is intended for leaders, innovators, deci-sion-makers, and anyone who wants to understand how orientation, stability, and meaning can emerge anew in the age of AI - not alone, but together.