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Why We’re Obsessed with AI: Exploring the Power of Generative Artificial Intelligence

Have you ever felt disillusioned with the internet? The endless distractions, fake news, and surveillance capitalism can leave us feeling drained. But amidst all the chaos, there is a glimmer of hope – generative artificial intelligence. Programs like Dall-E and VQGAN+CLIP are showcasing the wonders of AI, generating images and sparking our imagination.

The Creative Potential of Generative AI

Dall-E, one of the latest Silicon Valley crazes, allows you to input any text and it will generate an image for you. The results are uncanny and impressive, like a glimpse into a strange dream. Digital artist Tom Furse, who used VQGAN+CLIP, describes it as a “magic, infinite image box” that has the power to transform the creative arts.

But generative AI doesn’t stop at images. It can also produce poems, stories, symphonies, animations, and even potentially movies. OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Jukebox are pushing the boundaries of what AI can do, enabling us to create music and engage in interactive conversations.

The Potential Risks and Challenges

While the possibilities are exciting, there are also concerns about the future of AI. The rise of deep fakes, surveillance capitalism, and automated manipulation are just some of the potential risks. As AI continues to evolve, it’s crucial to address issues like biases, limitations, and ethical considerations.

OpenAI’s recent use of a Kenyan data farm to filter inappropriate content from Dall-E’s results highlights the need for rigorous testing and training. The limitations of current text generators are apparent, as they often lack common sense and produce errors. Noam Chomsky even questions the value of GPT-3, while musician Nick Cave refers to AI-generated art as a “grotesque mockery of what it means to be human.”

The Balance between Creativity and Replication

Despite the limitations, generative AI offers a unique perspective on creativity. Sacha Golob, a philosopher and aesthetics expert, believes that there is creativity in play, even if it’s based on predefined specifications. It challenges the notion of originality and raises questions about the nature of human creativity.

Artificial intelligence draws from existing data, making predictions based on what we’ve already created. This can lead to a sense of déjà vu in our digital experiences, where algorithms predict and replicate our preferences. However, this might be what we desire, as many people already gravitate towards familiar and clichéd content.

Artificial Intelligence and Shared Experiences

Perhaps what we truly value in art is not individuality, but a shared experience that makes us feel connected. The idea of self-expression as a form of conformity is challenged by Adam Curtis, a filmmaker. He suggests that true change happens when we come together as a collective to demand change, rather than isolating ourselves in artistic garrets.

Embracing the Imperfections of AI

Despite the concerns and uncertainties, there is a sense of excitement about the future of generative AI. Tom Furse envisions a world of bedroom avatars, living artworks, and collaborations with deceased artists. While there may be challenges along the way, Furse embraces the imperfections and sees AI as a fresh new medium.

Conclusion

Generative artificial intelligence has captured our imagination and sparked a new wave of creativity. While there are risks and limitations, the potential for artistic exploration and shared experiences is immense. As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of AI, let’s embrace the possibilities and shape the future of this exciting technology.