I agree with all of this (though having spent a fair amount of time doing literary analysis of The West Wing, I do think there are some interesting things that can be said there). The query-point seems to me to be the end to which AI is developed and therefore can be used. If it’s about almost-free productivity I can’t see how we avoid mediocrity. If it’s about conceptions of Truth and what ‘intelligence’ is, then maybe that opens an aperture to something bigger and more morally serious. I can’t currently see at all what that would be. Perhaps the next wave of serious work comes specifically from the opposition to AI. I have a pet theory that memoir in particular stands to benefit in a world of infinite AI production, because where there is no finitude in the number of novels that can be produced, the number of memoirs, and the content of those memoirs, is defined by individual human lives.
Whenever I say this about TV people have a show they think clears the bar, but they all pick a different one! Agree that the Stones weren't great in that sense, yes. I think the movies produced an ocean of dross and a pool of wonders, and if AI creates a new art form it will be similar.
'...a society that has become comfortable in its own mediocrity..' So on point. Great essay.
Thank you :)
I agree with all of this (though having spent a fair amount of time doing literary analysis of The West Wing, I do think there are some interesting things that can be said there). The query-point seems to me to be the end to which AI is developed and therefore can be used. If it’s about almost-free productivity I can’t see how we avoid mediocrity. If it’s about conceptions of Truth and what ‘intelligence’ is, then maybe that opens an aperture to something bigger and more morally serious. I can’t currently see at all what that would be. Perhaps the next wave of serious work comes specifically from the opposition to AI. I have a pet theory that memoir in particular stands to benefit in a world of infinite AI production, because where there is no finitude in the number of novels that can be produced, the number of memoirs, and the content of those memoirs, is defined by individual human lives.
I simply cannot forget when thinking about this just how doom and gloom so many people were about the Elizabethan theatre and the early novel!
If there is any great AI art I expect it will be something we haven't thought of yet
Whenever I say this about TV people have a show they think clears the bar, but they all pick a different one! Agree that the Stones weren't great in that sense, yes. I think the movies produced an ocean of dross and a pool of wonders, and if AI creates a new art form it will be similar.