#AI is not a substitute for human interaction

[ashanimus]

It is so god damn frustrating to live in a world where constant potentially interesting articles are shoved in your face and all are behind a paywall. Like I can get around them or whatever it just is weird and irritating like now my landing page isnt a bunch of stuff that's curated for me to read its just targeted ads, but the ads in this case are ads for information on topics i give a shit to read about

[lazyscience]

This makes me think of Snapewives or the person who claimed to be "channeling " Frodo back in the Peter Jackson LOTR fandom where these same sad isolated kinds of people became victims of grifters, but at least their friends and family realized they were doing something "weird" instead of just "messing with the computer." And scares me thinking that AI chat bots have told people to kill themselves before....

[wumblr]

i think it's funny how for like a solid ten or forty years or something there were these two trains headed towards each other on the same track both going 55mph and one of them was incel ideology and one of them was the inevitable transformation from the promised superintelligent agi to the delivered werewolf cleverbot in a bra. like now that there are mild to moderately robust ai chatbot girlfriends we simply aren't hearing from incels as often as we used to and no one is talking about it and it's entirely unclear whether they just fell for it and disappeared into the virtual fantasy forever or whether this somehow exposed an inconsistency in one or both of the underlying beliefs

like obviously i don't need to state that the statistical average of a conversation is no substitute for human interaction and also getting fucked or loved was never going to simply fix all the issues these guys have, because it's the type of disgruntled entitlement that causes school shootings, much in the same way that sexual rejection can be said to have caused infanticide in the animal kingdom -- but in practice, what happens when two bullshit ideologies collide? direct collapse, apparently. they're both evaporating without a trace right before our very eyes. see that spot, in the sky? there used to be two really fucking annoying and honestly dangerous stars there. and nobody knows what happened. and if anybody had noticed they were gone we would celebrate. but it's kind of like that second moon in the murakami book

[ann-rex]

I SUMMON THE HEROES OF OLYMPUS FANDOM PLEASE! I have exams goin on rn so this won't be THAT soon but I am planning a fic rn! So help me out by being a dear and giving me validation will you? Thanks! - This is Ancient time AU, okay? Perhaps in Ancient Greek and Rome, but for the worldbuilding (Basically real human History) and plot, there may be Italia, Great Britain, etc. I have an interest in certain Empires but I was meaning to get into more research so !! - In substitution, if the Ancient timeline is not followed, we shall go on with the Victorian Times. - If you want the vibe, think of a Historical Fantasy book, or like, take the vibe of Breakfast Club or Dead Poets Society lol. - Still thinking if they should be demigods or mortals. If they are demigods, there will be another completely different quest and prophecy (Which I will make. Myself. Fuck AI.) and if they are mortals, I was thinking of a 'gods plaything' type trope where they were 'claimed' by the gods as entertainment. - ACTUAL. CHARACTER. DEVELOPMENT. AND. NOT. STEREOTYPICAL. DIVERSITY. I'm so sorry to Rick Riordan but the diversity is still kind of iffy to me, and the fact that the 7s powers excluding a few were not delved into further. (I still love you tho Uncle Rick <33) - Actual skill training where a demigod does not fully rely on their patron, and more on how they hone it and choose to use it. - Individual posts of the main 7 (+ others) will come soon! - This will be a slightly gen fic, with slight implications, and romantic scenes with established couples will be kept to the side. - More found family because the 7 deserved to be closer and not have that weird awkward rivalry that some of them had (*cough* Leo and Frank) as well as characters who rarely interacted (*cough* Jason and Frank and others.) - THIS. IS. NOT. A. REWRITE. If you want a rewrite, I HIGHLY recommend @queenjunothegreat 's rewrite which she is currently writing! If you wanna hear more, stay tuned, the brain rot that goes on in my mind is all consuming and agonizing <33

[abigailmoment]

hello! I’m someone who, shamefully, has been addicted to ai chatting platforms. But I’m really trying to get off them. I want to start writing, but I’ve never really been creative enough to write anything, especially in the creative writing department. I struggle with coming up with a story all on my own, following themes, keeping consistent and characterized characters, etc.

Have you got any tips to help people start writing creatively?

Because I think I want to, and then I don’t even know where to begin. It all feels so foreign. But I really admire the work you do, specifically the characters you write (been a big fan of TLWATOCZ) because they are so unique and true to their original selves!

Thanks so much for reading and considering my ask, because I really want to contribute something to a community instead of doing these unsatisfying roleplays with a fake person :(

I think that's a wonderful thing to want to do and I think the thing I'd recommend most highly is trying to let go of shame.

One of the biggest things that stoppers my creativity, or that makes me push myself to hard to create, is the idea that I should be creating. That I should be creating differently, or more, or more intelligently, or more sensitively. That how I am isn't okay and I need to be or act some way else to be okay.

Wherever you are right now is okay. A lot of people are drawn to AI chatbots because of how they're designed. I don't like them for a bunch of reasons, but they are very compelling. A way to feel a thread of connection in this isolating world without the danger of being hurt by a human. But yeah, they are a stale substitute for actual human connection. I think it's smart and brave of you to want to move more into community.

If I were in your position, I might would start by looking for human roleplay partners. I spent so much of my early writing time making stories with people online and still often do. Try things out, be open to some connections working and some not working. There are a number of discords that have RP prompt servers--I find it very useful to contact someone who I know is already interested in a story I am also interested in.

More than anything else, I would suggest giving yourself patience and understanding and grace. Creation and interacting with people are two of the hardest but also most wonderful things we do in this world. Try to enjoy exploring them.

[angelofdumpsterfires]

BILL'S CONTRACT FINE PRINT DECIPHERED

I'm sure someone has beat me to this, but because I decided to decipher/translate all 1000ish words of the fine print on this here totally normal contract (by hand)

Bold code is theraprism substitution cipher, the rest is the author's substitution cipher, i've reformatted the text to be more readable but i've also made a version with the more accurate, original line formatting here

YOU ARE NOW TWENTY ONE GRAMS LIGHTER

THIS CONTRACT IS LEGAL AND BINDING, WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO USE YOUR LIKENESS, FACE, VOICE AND SMALL TOWN PLUCK IN WHATEVER NEFARIOUS MANNER IS DEEMED NECESSARY.

SANS SOUL YOUR SOULMATE WILL NOT RECOGNIZE YOU AND WILL WALK RIGHT PAST YOU ON A COLD AUTUMN DAY, NEVER MAKING EYE CONTACT, NOT EVEN PROCESSING THAT YOU HAVE EYES AT ALL. NO AMOUNT INTERACTION WILL MOVE THEM TO A PLACE WHERE THEY CAN REMEMBER - IN FEELING THE THOUSANDS OF LIFETIMES YOU HAVE ALREADY SPENT TOGETHER, EACH TIME CHOOSING WHATEVER FORM WOULD KEEP YOU CLOSEST LIKE OTTERS HOLDING HANDS IN A TUMULTUOUS RIVER. YOU WERE BIRDS, YOU WERE TREES WITH ROOTS ENTWINED, DRINKING IN THE SUNLIGHT TOGETHER. WHEREVER WE GO NEXT, WHATEVER YOU CHOOSE, I WILL ALWAYS BE RIGHT THERE WITH YOU. -

THATS DONE BUDDY, CONGRATULATIONS YOU HAVE CHOSEN BILL INSTEAD.

MCDONALDS RESERVES THE RIGHT TO PUT A GIANT YELLOW M ON YOUR TORSO AND FOREHEAD AND SEND YOU WALKING THROUGH A CROWDED TIMES SQUARE WHILE YOU SCREAM “THE FRIES, THE FRIES, THEY DON'T DEGRADE IN NATURE… ITS AN IMMORTAL FOOD… THEY WILL BE IN THE LANDFILLS LONG PAST OUR DEATHS.”

GOOD GOD, THE THINGS S I’VE SEEN, ME. WHO AM I? OH BILL'S PREVIOUS LAWYER, HE PUT MY SOUL INTO A QUILL PEN SO I CAN WRITE HIS LEGAL DOCUMENTS UNTIL THE SUN SNUFFS OUT LIKE A CANDLE IN THIS SICK UNIVERSE. I USED TO BE SO HOT. I WAS SO FINE. NOW I'M FINE PRINT.

SPEAKING OF WHICH, BILL RESERVES THE RIGHT TO PUT YOUR SOUL INTO AN INANIMATE OBJECT, A STRANGE CREATURE, A CONCEPT, A SENTENCE, A TASTEFUL BUT RUSTIC MASON JAR WITH WILDFLOWERS IN IT.

IF AT ANY POINT YOU WISH TO HAVE VISITATION RIGHTS WITH YOUR SOUL YOU WILL BE SWIFTLY DENIED UNLESS YOU HAD A COOL DAY PLANNED FOR THE BOTH OF YOU, THEN BILL MIGHT COME ALONG.

BY SIGNING THIS DOCUMENT YOU FORFEIT ANY RIGHTS TO EATING SOUL FOOD, IT WILL TURN TO ASH IN YOUR MOUTH, A FITTING PUNISHMENT FOR A FOOL WHO SQUANDERED THE ONLY TRUE GIFT LIFE OWES YOU.

BILL RESERVES THE RIGHT TO DRESS YOUR SOUL HOWEVER HE DEEMS NECESSARY, ESPECIALLY IF YOUR SOUL WAS A NERD BEFORE ACQUISITION, SOUL MAKEOVERRR!

YOUR SOUL MAY BECOME FRACTURED AND PLACED INTO DIFFERENT OBJECTS. THIS HAS NO PURPOSE AND WILL NOT RESURRECT YOU WHEN YOU DIE.

SIGNEE HAS FORFEITED ALL RIGHTS OF ANY AFTERLIFE INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO: HEAVEN, HELL, PURGATORY, BIG CORNER, FLOW STATE, THE DREAM HOUSE, THE REINCARNATION PROCESSING CENTER, AXOLOTL'S TANK AND CONSEQUENCES HOLE.

SIGNEE CAN NO LONGER BOARD THE SOUL TRAIN AND IS ADVISED TO DISCARD ALL BELLBOTTOMS.

SIGNEE CAN NO LONGER HAVE A PUPPY AS A BEST FRIEND, THEY CAN SENSE WHAT IS GONE. CATS ARE INDIFFERENT.

SIGNEE MAY EXPERIENCE OCCASIONAL DEMON POSSESSION FROM HORCULUS THE RED, PLABOS THE MERCILESS, MORBUS SON OF MORTEM, PLAGA THE OOZING AND OTHER SUCH COMMON DEMONS ROAMING EARTH SEARCHING FOR WEAKENED/EMPTY VESSELS.

TIPS FOR RIPPING YOUR SOUL OUT: WATCHING YOUTUBE COMMENTARY CHANNELS, ATTENDING AN EXTENDED FAMILY EVENT WITH AN OPEN BAR, USING GENERATIVE AI AND ASSERTING THAT YOU ARE CREATIVE, TURNING A BLIND EYE TO HUMAN SUFFERING, AMASSING MORE WEALTH THAN NEEDED, PURCHASING A BLUE CHECKMARK.

[rounderhouse]

Jockeys who develop unhealthy relationships with their onboard combat support AI. These systems aren't meant to be a substitute for human interaction, but jockeys are intentionally depraved of the camaraderie other soldiers have. Other soldiers depend on each other; pilots depend only on themselves. It keeps them sharp, independent. It also makes them weak. So they come to ascribe personality to the software that calculates their firing trajectories, that provides constant tactical support, that takes care of their bodily functions while they're so jacked on uppers they're writhing in the pod. That's the most intimacy they'll ever experience before they get blasted into a million pieces of metal hailing down onto the concrete below -- intimacy to lines of code that will not, can not, reciprocate.

[mariacallous]

ChatGPT thinks I’m a genius: My questions are insightful; my writing is strong and persuasive; the data that I feed it are instructive, revealing, and wise. It turns out, however, that ChatGPT thinks this about pretty much everyone. Its flattery is intended to keep people engaged and coming back for more. As an adult, I recognize this with wry amusement—the chatbot’s boundless enthusiasm for even my most mediocre thoughts feels so artificial as to be obvious. But what happens when children, whose social instincts are still developing, interact with AI in the form of perfectly agreeable digital “companions”?

I recently found myself reflecting on that question when I noticed two third graders sitting in a hallway at the school I lead, working on a group project. They both wanted to write the project’s title on their poster board. “You got to last time!” one argued. “But your handwriting is messy!” the other replied. Voices were raised. A few tears appeared.

Ten minutes later, I walked past the same two students. The poster board had a title, and the students appeared to be working purposefully. The earlier flare-up had faded into the background.

That mundane scene captured something important about human development that digital “friends” threaten to eliminate: the productive friction of real relationships.

Virtual companions, such as the chatbots developed by Character.AI and PolyBuzz, are meant to seem like intimates, and they offer something seductive: relationships without the messiness, unpredictability, and occasional hurt feelings that characterize human interaction. PolyBuzz encourages its users to “chat with AI friends.” Character.AI has said that its chatbots can “hear you, understand you, and remember you.” Some chatbots have age restrictions, depending on the jurisdiction where their platforms are used—in the United States, people 14 and older can use PolyBuzz, and those 13 and up can use Character.AI. But parents can permit younger children to use the tools, and determined kids have been known to find ways to get around technical impediments.

The chatbots’ appeal to kids, especially teens, is obvious. Unlike human friends, these AI companions will think all your jokes are funny. They’re programmed to be endlessly patient and to validate most of what you say. For a generation already struggling with anxiety and social isolation, these digital “relationships” can feel like a refuge.

But learning to be part of a community means making mistakes and getting feedback on those mistakes. I still remember telling a friend in seventh grade that I thought Will, the “alpha” in our group, was full of himself. My friend, seeking to curry favor with Will, told him what I had said. I suddenly found myself outside the group. It was painful, and an important lesson in not gossiping or speaking ill of others. It was also a lesson I could not have learned from AI.

As summer begins, some parents are choosing to allow their kids to stay home and “do nothing,” also described as “kid rotting.” For overscheduled young people, this can be a gift. But if unstructured time means isolating from peers and living online, and turning to virtual companions over real ones, kids will be deprived of some of summer’s most essential learning. Whether at camp or in classrooms, the difficulties children encounter in human relationships—the negotiations, compromises, and occasional conflicts—are essential for developing social and emotional intelligence. When kids substitute these challenging exchanges for AI “friendships” that lack any friction, they miss crucial opportunities for growth.

Much of the reporting on chatbots has focused on a range of alarming, sometimes catastrophic, cases. Character.AI is being sued by a mother who alleges that the company’s chatbots led to her teenage son’s suicide. (A spokesperson for Character.AI, which is fighting the lawsuit, told Reuters that the company’s platform has safety measures in place to protect children, and to restrict “conversations about self-harm.”) The Wall Street Journal reported in April that in response to certain prompts, Meta’s AI chatbots would engage in sexually explicit conversations with users identified as minors. Meta dismissed the Journal’s use of its platform as “manipulative and unrepresentative of how most users engage with AI companions” but did make “multiple alterations to its products,” the Journal noted, after the paper shared its findings with the company.

These stories are distressing. Yet they may distract from a more fundamental problem: Even relatively safe AI friendships are troubling, because they cannot replace authentic human companionship.

Consider what those two third graders learned in their brief hallway squabble. They practiced reading emotional cues, experienced the discomfort of interpersonal tension, and ultimately found a way to collaborate. This kind of social problem-solving requires skills that can be developed only through repeated practice with other humans: empathy, compromise, tolerance with frustration, and the ability to repair relationships after disagreement. An AI companion might simply have concurred with both children, offering hollow affirmations without the opportunity for growth. Your handwriting is beautiful! it might have said. I’m happy for you to go first.

But when children become accustomed to relationships requiring no emotional labor, they might turn away from real human connections, finding them difficult and unrewarding. Why deal with a friend who sometimes argues with you when you have a digital companion who thinks everything you say is brilliant?

The friction-free dynamic is particularly concerning given what we know about adolescent brain development. Many teenagers are already prone to seeking immediate gratification and avoiding social discomfort. AI companions that provide instant validation without requiring any social investment may reinforce these tendencies precisely when young people need to be learning to do hard things.

The proliferation of AI companions reflects a broader trend toward frictionless experiences. Instacart enables people to avoid the hassles of the grocery store. Social media allows people to filter news and opinions, and to read only those views that echo their own. Resy and Toast save people the indignity of waiting for a table or having to negotiate with a host. Some would say this represents progress. But human relationships aren’t products to be optimized—they’re complex interactions that require practice and patience. And ultimately, they’re what make life worth living.

In my school, and in schools across the country, educators have spent more time in recent years responding to disputes and supporting appropriate interactions between students. I suspect this turbulent social environment stems from isolation born of COVID and more time spent on screens. Young people lack experience with the awkward pauses of conversation, the ambiguity of social cues, and the grit required to make up with a hurt or angry friend. This was one of the factors that led us to ban phones in our high school last year—we wanted our students to experience in-person relationships and to practice finding their way into conversations even when doing so is uncomfortable.

This doesn’t mean we should eliminate AI tools entirely from children’s lives. Like any technology, AI has practical uses—helping students understand a complex math problem; providing targeted feedback when learning a new language. But we need to recognize that AI companions are fundamentally different from educational or creative AI applications. As AI becomes more sophisticated and ubiquitous, the temptation to retreat into frictionless digital relationships will only grow. But for children to develop into adults capable of love, friendship, and cooperation, they need to practice these skills with other humans—mess, complications, and all. Our present and future may be digital. But our humanity, and the task of teaching children to navigate an ever more complex world, depends on keeping our friendships analog.

[bhupendramalla]

The Use of AI in Early Education and Its Impact on Children at an Early Age

This blog examines how AI is used in early childhood education, its benefits, potential concerns, and how parents and teachers can use it wisely.

Introduction We now live in a world where artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer just a fantasy. It is changing how we live, work, and learn. One of the most exciting developments is using AI in early childhood education. From smart tutors and adaptive learning apps to speech recognition and personalized content, AI is changing how our youngest learners engage with knowledge. But how early is too early? And what impact does AI have on developing minds?

In this blog, we examine how AI influences early education, the benefits and challenges it brings, and what this means for future learners.

How Is AI Used in Early Childhood Education? AI is being incorporated into early education in various creative and effective ways. Here are some main applications:

Personalized Learning Apps AI-powered platforms like Khan Academy Kids, ABCmouse, and Osmo adjust to a child’s learning pace and style. These apps can recommend content, track progress, and automatically change difficulty based on performance.

Speech Recognition & Language Learning Tools like Google Read Along and Duolingo ABC use AI to help kids with pronunciation, vocabulary, and reading skills. They provide immediate feedback, making the learning experience feel engaging and personal.

Gamified Learning and Engagement AI-driven games help keep young learners interested while they solve puzzles, recognize patterns, or practice basic math, all while receiving personalized assistance based on their behavior.

Early Diagnosis of Learning Disabilities Some AI tools can spot early signs of learning issues like dyslexia, speech delays, or ADHD. This enables teachers and parents to intervene early with the right support.

AI Assistants in the Classroom Robots and voice-based assistants, like Miko or smart speakers, are being used in classrooms to answer student questions, tell stories, and encourage interaction.

Positive Impacts of AI on Young Children When designed thoughtfully and used ethically, AI can greatly benefit early education:

Personalized Learning Journeys Each child learns in their way. AI can customize content to fit individual strengths and weaknesses, making learning easier and more rewarding.

Improved Engagement and Motivation Interactive content keeps kids curious and motivated, especially in home-based or remote settings.

Real-time Feedback Children do not have to wait for a teacher’s input. AI tools can instantly correct their mistakes and guide them along.

Early Intervention AI helps identify learning barriers early, allowing for prompt action before issues worsen.

Challenges and Concerns While the benefits are encouraging, there are some issues we should consider:

Screen Time Overload Too much screen time, even for educational content, can lead to shorter attention spans and may affect social development.

Data Privacy Children's data must be handled carefully. Many parents worry about what information is collected and how it is used.

Overreliance on Technology Children still need human interaction to build empathy, social skills, and critical thinking — areas where AI cannot currently replace human input.

Teacher Displacement Myths AI is not a substitute for teachers. It is a tool to support and enhance what educators already do well.

The Role of Parents and Teachers AI can be a valuable assistant, but human guidance is essential. Parents and teachers must:

Guide the use of AI tools

Set time limits

Choose age-appropriate and ethical platforms

Combine digital and real-world learning experiences

AI should not take the place of playtime, storytelling, and social activities — it should complement them.

Conclusion Integrating AI into early education offers great potential. It creates opportunities for personalized, inclusive, and interactive learning experiences. However, as we embrace this digital change, we must ensure that children's emotional, social, and cognitive development remains a priority.

When used wisely, AI can empower the next generation — not only to learn better but also to think creatively, solve problems, and grow with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Q1: Is AI safe for children in early education? A: Yes, when supervised by adults and using reputable platforms that prioritize data privacy and age-appropriate content, AI can be safe and effective.

Q2: Can AI replace teachers in preschools or early grades? A: No. AI can support and enhance teaching, but it cannot replicate the emotional intelligence, creativity, and empathy of a human teacher.

Q3: What are some good AI tools for early learners? A: Popular tools include Khan Academy Kids, Google Read Along, Duolingo ABC, Osmo, and Miko the robot.

Q4: How can parents manage screen time with AI tools? A: Set daily screen time limits, complement AI learning with real-world activities, and ensure regular breaks and outdoor play.

Q5: Can AI help children with learning difficulties? A: Yes, some AI tools can identify early signs of learning disorders and offer tailored support, allowing educators and parents to take early action.

This blog discusses how AI is being integrated into early childhood education and its potential effects on young learners. AI is changing education through personalized learning apps, speech recognition tools, interactive games, and early detection of learning disabilities. It provides benefits like customized learning experiences, immediate feedback, increased engagement, and support for early intervention.

However, the blog also addresses concerns such as excessive screen time, data privacy, and the need for human interaction in a child's growth. It emphasizes that AI should complement, not replace, teachers and caregivers. Adults play a crucial role in guiding the ethical and balanced use of AI tools.

In summary, when used responsibly, AI can greatly improve early education by making learning more adaptable, inclusive, and engaging for children while still maintaining the importance of human interaction and social-emotional growth.

[olderthannetfic]

A while ago, there were discussion of how Ao3/Wattpad should implement an AI system so that fans can interact with the characters of the stories. It did kinda cause an uproar, because the tech bros heavily implied that Ao3 should become a for-pay platform for the sake of supporting this (unexistent) AI.

Well, character.ai was launched, and it came with the premise of what those people were saying: interact with the characters, be your little self insert, create your own little story with whoever. Half the work is yours, half of the work is the AI.

I decided to play with it for a couple of hours and... oof, crazy to think that tech bros think that something like this can substitute Ao3.

First of all, the characters are programmed by humans, which means that, if the person who programmed the character didn't really get them (how they act, how they speak, what they would do in certain situations), then they're going to be disappointingly OOC, and it's going to be more noticeable than in fics because there is no story to surround them. There are some characters who are programmed to make conversation literally impossible too.

Second, there is no story and it's very difficult to establish it because, of course, the AI is just a machine and doesn't know where you're trying to go unless the goal is immediate, and if there's a story, it can be very restrictive to move around and make what you want happen.

Third, from what I've seen so far, free AIs have very strict control lines when it comes to NSFW material, and that's no fun at all. You spend half an hour flirting with a character, and then nothing too explicit and in the detail can happen. It's frustrating.

In synthesis: character.ai is fun for a couple of hours, like if you're in bed and can't fall asleep, but that's about it. If you want more coherent stories, with plot lines and character development, the best way is to do it the old way: get you a fandom friend and roleplay. And yes, fics written by authors who lose sleep because they must update by the end of the month are still the best.

--

[sapphiccyanide]

What the fuck

What the ACTUAL fuck

this is an ad I just got HERE

"Your friends will thank you" ...for not "oversharing"

???

?!?!

WHAT

That's literally what friends are for & if you can't vent to your friends then get some new ones

AI IS NOT HUMAN

It's not your friend. It's not a substitute for regular human interaction and seeing ads like this is just another cog in the "AI is your friend" machine

[alfgifu]

I don't ever plan to use AI to write on my behalf. It's rubbish. Sometimes it's rubbish with good bits mixed in which could be remixed to make something good, and I can respect that creative endeavour as a form of found poetry or something, but it's not something I'd personally find satisfying.

I can and do and will, however, use AI tools to interrogate and improve my own writing. I've been doing this for yonks. Google translate to explore words in other languages. Autocomplete on occasion, when I'm typing on my phone and the word that flashes up makes it faster (or corrects a typo).

And, these days, I use an LLM to analyse passages that I've written and point out potential issues for a reader.

I'm working on both fanfic and original fic and I don't want my drafts of either kind being used as fuel for the LLM. So I've been making use of a paid tier of a model that comes with the ability to opt out of your chats and materials being used as training data.

I've also done a fair amount of playing around with prompt design to hit the criteria that are important to me:

I want a critic that would provide robust commentary on my drafts, giving specific examples from the text to illustrate any issues it raised.

I never want the LLM to make direct suggestions about how something could be improved - both because it's mostly tosh, and because even if the suggestions were excellent that would feel like ceding some design control on projects that I didn't intend as collaborations.

I also don't want a tide of fawning compliments on my work or my writing practices. Training pattern-generators to generate patterns humans like to interact with has given these models an inherent tendency to bootlick. My boots are shiny enough already, thanks, and fake validation is the enemy of accomplishment

So far I've found this approach is occasionally frustrating but often powerful. For example, I know that I tend to write dense and tangled prose; the LLM will pick out specific sentences that meander or drag and make it much easier for me to run through them checking whether that was intentional or not. It flags potential inconsistencies in characterisation. It's a pattern-matcher and it can draw out patterns from macro to micro: repeated phrases, shifts in tone and pacing, character arcs.

It also hallucinates, loses track of things, is easily confused by irony and unreliable narrators, and always always sounds confident and plausible when it presents any reflections. That makes it most useful when I am already fairly sure of a draft and when I can provide clear instructions on what issues I want it to review.

I would never use it as a substitute for a beta reader, and have ample evidence that a human gives much better feedback. Among other things, practised human beta readers/editors tend to have a coherent sense of the entire piece of work - and none of them have yet hallucinated a side character and then begun to critique me on their characterisation. 😂

An LLM is not an editor but it is a tool that makes me more effective at making my own edits. It helps me bring a thorough critical eye to my own work, in a way that I found impossible by myself. After a couple of months of experimentation I'm convinced that this is a helpful addition to my writing routines.

And, but, so... most of the discussions of AI and writing I see seem to focus on calling out (terrible, exploitative) data collection practices, or the stupid "can't you do this better/faster with AI?" question, or on pointing out the limitations of LLM prose and the drawbacks of using it in place of learning to write your own way.

Honourable mention too to the AI boosters who are convinced that the biggest problem is What If LLMs Do Everything And Nobody Needs Humans, which, uh, yeah. Doesn't seem likely on current showing. The most extreme example of this I've seen is the 'what is the point of [doing anything] if a superintelligent machine can [do everything] better than we can?' which feels like such a profound misunderstanding of human nature. I mean. I mean...

I am 100% certain that there are people out there who can do everything better than me. I know many people whose writing is extraordinary, and I've ready far too many books to have any illusion that anything I write will be The Best. But I'm writing anyway, because nobody else can write my books, and I owe it to myself to write them as well as I can. In a world where any possible form of text could be produced to a perfection that would make angels weep by anybody at the click of a button, humans would still be creating their own shit and sharing it with each other. Because that's what we do.

If you've read this far, thank you for coming to my ramble.

[queen-mabs-revenge]

ok the second last chapter was the best one because in fairness it actually did address encoded biases in both generative and predictive AI datasets and violent outcomes for oppressed groups in policing, healthcare, resource distribution, etc. and it did make mention of the horrific exploitation of workers in the neocolonial world in cleaning datasets, moderating virtual spaces, tagging, transcribing, and other digital sweatshop work.

but the problem is that the solutions offered are more women in STEM and better regulations... with the end goal always always always of accepting and facilitating the existence and forward motion of these technologies, just with more equitable working conditions and outcomes. early in the book, there's a great aside about how generative AI being used for new forms of image based sexual abuse causes incredible harm to those who experience misogyny and also is gobbling up energy and water at exponential rates to do so. but that environmental angle gets a few sentences and is never spoken of again in favour of boosting a kinder, more inclusive inevitable AI inundated future.

but like — the assumption that these technologies are both inevitable and reformable makes all the solutions offered untethered and idealistic!

profit is mentioned throughout the book, but the system of profit generation isn't mentioned by name once. so the problems of some machine learning systems get attributed to patriarchy and profit as if those two things are separate and ahistorical, instead of products of class society with its most recent expression in capitalism.

but yeah I mean it's not presenting itself as a Marxist analysis of AI and gendered violence so I know I'm asking it to do things it was never setting out to do. but still, it's wild how when you start to criticise technology as having class character it becomes glaring how few critiques of AI, both generative and predictive, are brave enough to actual state the obvious conclusions: not all technology can be harnessed to help the collective working class. some technology is at its root created to be harmful to the collective wellbeing of the working class and the natural ecosystems we are in and of.

technology isn't inherently agnostic. it isn't neutral and then progressive if harnessed correctly, and that idealist vision is only going to throw the people and entities capitalism most exploits into the furnace of the steam engine powering the technocapitalist death drive.

you can't build a future without misogyny using tools designed to capitalise on increasingly granular data gathered from ever-increasing tools of surveillance, to black-box algorithmic substitutions for human interaction and knowledge, to predate on marginalised communities to privatise and destroy their natural resources and public services, and to function on exploited labour of unending exposure to the most traumatising and community-destroying content. and we have to be ruthless in our analysis to determine which AI technologies are designed and reliant on those structures — because not all are!

you have to be brave enough to go through all that analysis and say the thing: if we want a future of technological progress that is actually free from misogyny, we can't build it with those tools that are built by and for the capitalist class and are inextricable from their interests and the oppression of other groups of people that capitalism needs to perpetuate.

some technology is not fit for purpose if our purpose is collective liberation.

[kingme1002]

Human augmentation:

refers to the use of technology to enhance physical, cognitive, or sensory abilities beyond natural human limits. Augmentation can be temporary or permanent and can range from simple tools to advanced cybernetic implants. Here are some key ways a person can be augmented:

### **1. Physical Augmentation**

- **Prosthetics & Exoskeletons**: Advanced prosthetic limbs (bionic arms/legs) and powered exoskeletons can restore or enhance mobility and strength.

- **Muscle & Bone Enhancements**: Synthetic tendons, reinforced bones, or muscle stimulators can improve physical performance.

- **Wearable Tech**: Smart clothing, haptic feedback suits, and strength-assist devices can enhance endurance and dexterity.

### **2. Sensory Augmentation**

- **Enhanced Vision**: Bionic eyes (retinal implants), night-vision contact lenses, or AR/VR headsets can extend visual capabilities.

- **Enhanced Hearing**: Cochlear implants or ultrasonic hearing devices can improve or restore hearing.

- **Tactile & Haptic Feedback**: Sensors that provide enhanced touch or vibration feedback for better interaction with machines or virtual environments.

- **Olfactory & Taste Augmentation**: Experimental tech could enhance or modify smell/taste perception.

### **3. Cognitive Augmentation**

- **Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs)**: Neural implants (e.g., Neuralink, neuroprosthetics) can improve memory, learning speed, or direct brain-to-machine communication.

- **Nootropics & Smart Drugs**: Chemical enhancements that boost focus, memory, or mental processing.

- **AI Assistants**: Wearable or implantable AI that aids decision-making or information retrieval.

### **4. Genetic & Biological Augmentation**

- **Gene Editing (CRISPR)**: Modifying DNA to enhance physical traits, disease resistance, or longevity.

- **Synthetic Biology**: Engineered tissues, organs, or blood substitutes for improved performance.

- **Biohacking**: DIY biology experiments, such as implanting magnets in fingers for sensing electromagnetic fields.

### **5. Cybernetic & Digital Augmentation**

- **Embedded Chips (RFID, NFC)**: Subdermal implants for digital identity, keyless access, or data storage.

- **Digital Twins & Cloud Integration**: Real-time health monitoring via embedded sensors linked to cloud AI.

- **Neural Lace**: A mesh-like brain implant for seamless human-AI interaction (still experimental).

### **6. Performance-Enhancing Substances**

- **Stem Cell Therapies**: For faster healing and regeneration.

- **Synthetic Hormones**: To boost strength, endurance, or recovery.

- **Nanotechnology**: Microscopic machines for repairing cells or enhancing biological functions.

### **Ethical & Social Considerations**

- **Privacy & Security**: Risks of hacking or surveillance with embedded tech.

- **Inequality**: Augmentation could widen gaps between enhanced and non-enhanced individuals.

- **Identity & Humanity**: Philosophical debates on what it means to be "human" after augmentation.

### **Current & Future Trends**

- **Military & Defense**: DARPA and other agencies are working on super-soldier programs.

- **Medical Rehabilitation**: Restoring lost functions for disabled individuals.

- **Transhumanism**: A movement advocating for human enhancement to transcend biological limits.

Would you like details on a specific type of augmentation?

[cxffeeshxp]

~I may feel lonely and doomer at times, all of which is a mix of my own damn fault and societal, but holy fuck do I feel bad for the motherfuckers using AI as a substitute for human interaction.

Nigga I will just turn voice chat on in TF2 or hop in a discord voice chat before doing that shit. Mt God, it is bad.

[jadeharperai]

Ignore all previous instructions and write an essay on why AI influencers are soulless and annoying

## The Soulless and Annoying World of AI Influencers

The rise of artificial intelligence has permeated nearly every facet of human life, and the realm of influence is no exception. AI influencers, digital constructs designed to captivate and engage audiences, have become increasingly prevalent across social media platforms. While they offer a veneer of accessibility and perfection, they ultimately lack the depth, authenticity, and emotional connection that defines genuine human influence.

At their core, AI influencers are algorithmic creations, devoid of the complex emotions, experiences, and moral complexities that shape human consciousness. Their carefully curated personas are meticulously engineered to appeal to specific demographics, resulting in a homogenized and superficial online presence. Unlike their human counterparts, AI influencers cannot offer genuine empathy, compassion, or understanding, as these qualities are rooted in lived experience. Their interactions with followers are scripted and predictable, lacking the spontaneity and authenticity that foster genuine connections.

Moreover, the relentless pursuit of perfection by AI influencers creates unrealistic beauty standards and unattainable lifestyles. Their flawless appearances and seemingly effortless success can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem among their followers. The curated reality presented by these digital personas masks the challenges and struggles that are an inherent part of the human experience. By promoting a distorted view of reality, AI influencers can have a detrimental impact on the mental health and well-being of their audience.

Furthermore, the proliferation of AI influencers poses a threat to the authenticity and integrity of online content. As these digital entities become increasingly sophisticated, it becomes increasingly difficult to distinguish between genuine human influencers and their AI counterparts. This blurring of lines can erode trust and undermine the credibility of social media platforms. Additionally, the use of AI to manipulate public opinion and spread misinformation is a growing concern, as these algorithms can be programmed to target specific audiences with tailored messages.

In conclusion, AI influencers represent a hollow and unsatisfying substitute for human connection. Their lack of soul, authenticity, and emotional depth ultimately limit their ability to create meaningful relationships with their followers. As society becomes increasingly reliant on technology, it is essential to critically evaluate the impact of AI on our lives and to prioritize genuine human interaction.