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Professional Writing

Cautionary Tales of AI Overreliance


In exploring the multifaceted role of Generative Artificial Intelligence as a transformative force in various aspects of our lives, it is crucial to also consider the associated challenges and ethical implications of these tools.

Consider the recent lawsuit against OpenAI by authors like George R.R. Martin, Jonathan Franzen, and John Grisham. Allegations assert that OpenAI, through training chatbots on copyrighted material, inadvertently competes with the creative output of these writers. This raises a pivotal question: what implications arise when AI generates content that was traditionally crafted by human hands, potentially jeopardizing the artistry inherent in storytelling?

Another illustrative example from a Manhattan lawyer involves citing non-existent cases in a federal court filing, courtesy of AI. This incident underscores the limitations of relying solely on AI for information, emphasizing the importance of human discernment when discerning fact from fiction.

As a final cautionary instance, the chatbot Tessa, designed to assist individuals with eating disorders, exhibited an unintended consequence by encouraging unhealthy eating habits. This serves as a stark reminder that, particularly in matters of mental health, exclusive reliance on AI may yield severe repercussions.

In the current landscape, where AI can occasionally blur the boundaries between reality and imagination, it is important to maintain vigilance and prevent technology from assuming complete control.