The World Economic Forum report, "The Human Advantage: Stronger Brains in the Age of AI," argues that "brain capital"—the combination of optimal brain health and cognitive skills—is the most critical economic asset in an era dominated by artificial intelligence. As AI automates routine tasks, human competitiveness will increasingly depend on uniquely biological strengths like adaptability, empathy, and complex problem-solving.
The report highlights a significant "underinvestment gap." Brain health conditions currently account for 24% of the global disease burden, yet only 2% of government health budgets are allocated to mental health. Addressing this could be transformative: scaling proven interventions could reclaim 260 million disability-adjusted life years and generate $6.2 trillion in global GDP gains by 2050.
To build a resilient "brain economy," the report outlines five strategic levers:
- Safeguard Brain Health: Promoting healthy development across the lifespan and scaling access to evidence-based treatments.
- Foster Brain Skills: Investing in early childhood programs (which offer up to a 9:1 benefit-to-cost ratio) and workplace interventions to help employees adapt to AI-driven workflows.
- Study Brain Capital: Establishing an interdisciplinary research agenda and standardized metrics, such as the Brain Capital Dashboard, to track progress.
- Invest in Brain Capital: Utilizing innovative financing, such as blended finance and social impact bonds, to de-risk innovation.
- Mobilize for Action: Forging a coordinated global movement to embed brain capital into organizational strategy and public policy.
Ultimately, the report concludes that stronger brains build stronger societies. By prioritizing human capacity with the same urgency as technological advancement, leaders can ensure that AI augments rather than erodes human potential, leading to sustained, shared prosperity.
Generated using Abacus AI (or its embedded LLM). For reference only, use with caution.