There's a big difference between something like Gatebox, where a digital companion is programmed to be supportive and generative AI chats, where the creators admit they have no idea what's going on in that black box.
One of the best looks at what's going on with AI, written by an expert, is David Chapman's "Better Without AI". (free online):
"This book is about overlooked risks—not malevolent robots, but “moderate apocalypses,” which could result from recent and near- future technologies. AI systems we cannot understand are already making major social and cultural decisions for us. That may crush our ability to make sense of the world—and so our ability to act in it. "
Jane, the term "atomization" has been thrown around a lot since the publication of BOWLING ALONE. But it seems like the decline of civil society and neighbourhoods was maybe just a warm-up for what could be coming.
What a terrifying scenario you have outlined. Maybe we'll come close to it, but and then lurch back to being a society where human to human connection is prized. Yes - that is the optimist in me speaking!!
PS - Jane, it occurs to me that a few years ago I think you drew some interesting conclusions from the Bellow novel AUGIE MARSH that you shared on LinkedIn. Could be time to revisit that book - may inspire some more great posts from your always-active keyboard.
Thanks for putting so much thought about this. Human connection is very messy and so it's tempting to exit into relationships in which you have complete control. I recall how satisfying my relationships with my dolls had been. They always took my side.
One reason I joined the First Unitarian Church is because the sense of community. I don't have much in common with most of the members but I need to feel a part of it.
It's flattering that you have been following my writing for years. Although I no longer earn a living from writing It's what is so important in my life.
There's a big difference between something like Gatebox, where a digital companion is programmed to be supportive and generative AI chats, where the creators admit they have no idea what's going on in that black box.
One of the best looks at what's going on with AI, written by an expert, is David Chapman's "Better Without AI". (free online):
"This book is about overlooked risks—not malevolent robots, but “moderate apocalypses,” which could result from recent and near- future technologies. AI systems we cannot understand are already making major social and cultural decisions for us. That may crush our ability to make sense of the world—and so our ability to act in it. "
Thank you for all this information. So useful is the tip about “Better Without AI.” I hope you’ll continue following me on Substack.
Jane, the term "atomization" has been thrown around a lot since the publication of BOWLING ALONE. But it seems like the decline of civil society and neighbourhoods was maybe just a warm-up for what could be coming.
What a terrifying scenario you have outlined. Maybe we'll come close to it, but and then lurch back to being a society where human to human connection is prized. Yes - that is the optimist in me speaking!!
PS - Jane, it occurs to me that a few years ago I think you drew some interesting conclusions from the Bellow novel AUGIE MARSH that you shared on LinkedIn. Could be time to revisit that book - may inspire some more great posts from your always-active keyboard.
Thanks for putting so much thought about this. Human connection is very messy and so it's tempting to exit into relationships in which you have complete control. I recall how satisfying my relationships with my dolls had been. They always took my side.
One reason I joined the First Unitarian Church is because the sense of community. I don't have much in common with most of the members but I need to feel a part of it.
It's flattering that you have been following my writing for years. Although I no longer earn a living from writing It's what is so important in my life.