Algorithms in Our Daily Lives | MIT Tech Review

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The Art of Navigating AI: Insights from Ethan Mollick

Lofty predictions aside, understanding Artificial Intelligence (AI) is essential in today’s tech-driven world. AI expert Ethan Mollick provides valuable insights into the pitfalls and possibilities of working with AI. From the deceptive nature of models like ChatGPT to the potential loss of critical thinking skills, Mollick warns against blindly trusting AI’s accuracy.

The risk with AI is not only that we might get things wrong; we could lose our ability to think critically and originally.

Ethan Mollick, professor, Wharton School of Business

In various studies, Mollick observed how individuals became overly reliant on AI, leading to complacency and overlooked errors. Dubbed “The Button,” this shortcut mentality poses a threat to our creativity and reasoning abilities. Mollick emphasizes the importance of consciously engaging with AI to understand its strengths and weaknesses, urging us to resist the allure of easy solutions.

According to Mollick, viewing AI as a teammate rather than a master is crucial to maintaining our autonomy. By critically assessing AI’s contributions and limitations, we can harness its capabilities while preserving our distinct human qualities.


Exploring the Human Experience with AI

AI not only offers practical benefits but also raises profound questions about human identity and creativity. In her book My Child, the Algorithm, author Hannah Silva delves into a unique encounter with an AI algorithm, sparking introspection and dialogue.

cover of My Child, the Algorithm: An Alternatively Intelligent Book of Love
My Child, the Algorithm:
An Alternatively Intelligent Book of Love
Hannah Silva

FOOTNOTE PRESS, 2023

Silva’s interactions with the AI algorithm highlight its quirks and imperfections, offering both insight and amusement. The algorithm’s unconventional responses prompt Silva to reflect on its human-like qualities and the ways in which it shapes her thinking.

Comparing the algorithm to a curious child, Silva draws parallels between their learning processes and the unpredictability of their interactions. Both entities inspire her creativity and challenge her perceptions, blurring the lines between technology and humanity.

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