Diary of the Year of AI
The article reflects on the rapid development of artificial intelligence and its implications for the future, referencing cultural and cinematic influences.
The piece discusses the astonishing speed at which artificial intelligence (AI) is learning to imitate human flaws, suggesting that any contemplation on the matter may soon become irrelevant. It describes contemporary theories as merely snapshots of our current mental state, which could serve to illustrate a fleeting moment in history. The intensity of AI's evolution is compared to a deep and enigmatic wound on the fabric of societal understanding, raising questions about our ability to keep pace with changes that are happening almost instantaneously.
Particularly, the article critiques past representations of futurism in films like 'Strange Days' (1995) by Kathryn Bigelow, which envisioned memory recording and sharing in a tangible, consumable form. While the film correctly identifies these memories as being commodified for sexual consumption, it falters in its portrayal of a black market or an accessible interface, portraying memories as linear and unalterable narratives. This critique points to the limitations of earlier understandings of technology and its potential impact on human experience, as the reality of AI evolves at a pace that outstrips artistic and theoretical frameworks.
The underlying theme suggests that as AI continues to advance, it will fundamentally transform not just how we narrate our experiences, but also the moral and ethical frameworks that govern these transformations. The article posits that the future possibilities of AI demand new perspectives and narratives to adequately address the complex dynamics of technology and humanity—positions which are urgently needed before they become outdated themselves, much like the visions of the past.