In an era where AI is revolutionizing industries, from software development to writing, I find myself increasingly wary of its pervasive influence. The author, a seasoned coder and writer, reflects on their journey, highlighting the transformative nature of both coding and writing. They argue that the advent of large language models (LLMs) has deskilled software development, with AI tools generating code through conversational prompts. This shift has led to redundancies in tech companies, raising concerns about the future of employment in the sector. Similarly, writing has been overwhelmed by AI-generated slop, causing fear among writers and even influencing language usage, such as the avoidance of em dashes.
The author's personal journey with AI is one of cautious resistance. They emphasize the importance of thinking, viewing it as a fundamental human trait that should not be outsourced. They worry about the younger generation, who may see AI as an opaque, uncontrollable force, potentially impacting their relationship with technology and the world. The author suggests that limiting AI usage may preserve cognitive sovereignty and protect against the privatization of thought by large AI companies.
Despite the allure of AI's efficiency, the author chooses a path of inconvenience and inefficiency. They believe that this choice is essential for preserving their humanity and building character. The author acknowledges the trade-offs, such as the potential for financial gain in an AI startup, but prioritizes their values. This decision is not without challenges, as the author is surrounded by the apparent evidence of AI's dominance, from corporate investments to its normalization in everyday life.
In conclusion, the author's stance against AI is a reflection of their commitment to critical thinking and personal integrity. They argue that in a world where efficiency is often tied to corporate greed, embracing inconvenience can be a form of resistance, allowing individuals to stay rooted in the world with intention and integrity.
