Jack,
I didn't find your 'leap' that hard to make. Everything is a 2 way process. Even while considering the values of AI we'll be reconsidering our own.
I also find perceptive and critical; "our planet faces grave risks to which antiquated beliefs hardly have an adequate response." ... "We need a new paradigm, in directing our technology, one worthy of, and, consistent with our conquest of the atom and that of taking our first steps on the moon." ... "As our childhood, at last, draws to an end, our new age requires that we find the necessary wisdom not out of votive offerings, but, from within ourselves."
I subtly argue exactly that, and try to demonstrate the power of finding and applying that new wisdom from within to improve our understanding of nature. We agree entirely; "...they are impaired by their limited intellectual capacity in "finding their way"." We just express the solution differently, mine allegorical and logical, yours beautifully lyrical.
One point we may diverge on is my concern that we need to improve the way we think before modelling AI on ourselves. Might not the risk of building in such flaws lead to disaster?
A very enjoyable essay to read, much under rated I think. Well done and thank you. I hope the dreaded letters QM won't put you off mine. My experiment ans simple geometry shows it's 'predictions' can really be derived paradox free by an 11 year old!
Best wishes
Peter