Why I Believe AI is the Biggest Lie Ever and We’re Buying It

🌈 Abstract

The article discusses the hype and reality around artificial intelligence (AI), particularly the limitations of current AI systems and the need for a more realistic view of AI capabilities.

🙋 Q&A

[01] Artificial Intelligence: Hype vs. Reality

1. What are the key points made about the current state of AI?

• The author argues that AI is neither intelligent nor artificial, and that the hype around AI is akin to "AI snake oil" being sold by marketing-driven "doom-mongers".
• The author states that "true AI" or general artificial intelligence (AGI) is a "chimera" and that we are "eons away" from anything resembling human-level intelligence.
• Current AI systems, such as chatbots and writing assistants, are limited and lack emotional intelligence, common sense, and the ability to truly generate creative outputs.
• AI is as biased as its human creators, and algorithmic bias can have serious consequences.

2. What is the author's view on the investment and growth in the AI industry?

• The author notes that the AI industry has seen significant investment and growth, with global spending on AI estimated at $154 billion in 2023.
• However, the author questions the profitability of AI companies, particularly OpenAI, which the author suggests is more akin to a "donation" than a true investment.
• The author suggests that the real winners in the "gold rush" of AI are the companies selling the tools, such as Nvidia, rather than the AI companies themselves.

[02] The Need for a Realistic Approach to AI

1. What does the author propose as the way forward for AI development?

• The author argues that we need a "realistic view of AI" and a focus on AI ethics from a human-centric perspective.
• The author emphasizes the need for conscious human oversight of AI systems to mitigate algorithmic bias and ensure AI does not infringe on human rights.
• The author suggests that GenAI and large language models (LLMs) are powerful tools, but not a replacement for human intelligence and creativity.

2. What is the author's overall message about the current state and future of AI?

• The author is highly critical of the hype and marketing around AI, arguing that the current state of AI is far from the "true AI" or AGI that is often promised.
• The author emphasizes the limitations of current AI systems and the need for a more realistic and cautious approach to AI development and deployment.
• The author's overall message is that we should be wary of the "snake oil salespeople" and focus on developing AI in a way that is ethical, transparent, and aligned with human values and needs.