How to stop anthropomorphizing AI: A guide to clearer language about technology
By
Mystery AI Hype Theater 3000
Summary
Emily M. Bender and Nanna Inie argue that anthropomorphizing language around "AI" technologies obscures clear discussion of what these systems actually do. They identify three steps to change this: noticing anthropomorphizing word choices, finding alternatives, and building new habits. The piece calls for more precise, honest language to enable better public understanding and policy decisions about AI systems.
Source
bskyHow to stop anthropomorphizing AI: A guide to clearer language about technologybuttondown.comKey quotes
· 3 pulledWe made the case against the anthropomorphizing language that makes it harder to have clear discussions of what so-called 'AI' technologies actually do
These ways of speaking are deeply ingrained at this point, and it takes work to carve new conversational and writing habits
Noticing which word choices are anthropomorphizing — Finding alternatives — Getting in the habit of using the alternatives
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