In which I once again extemporise on why AI is so very very significant to humanity

An old man opines

Repost from Jan 2017 - Facing the Imminent Problem of AI & Robots

Facing the IMMINENT Problem of AI & Robots

Back in January 2017—six months before Attention Is All You Need reframed machine learning—I penned this piece in response to what I sensed was coming. As we now reckon with the exponential rise of AI and automation, I’m republishing it not to say "I told you so," but rather "We’ve been here before—let's walk forward with foresight and humanity." This essay speaks to the timelessness of empathy in the face of technological disruption and reminds us: the future of work might just be more human than ever.

A Call for Human Connection

There’s a big, undeniable, elephant-sized elephant sitting squarely in the global room. For centuries, we’ve relied on a comforting pattern: the invention of new technologies would inevitably displace one type of work, but a second industry would emerge to take its place. Paradoxically, this process often created more jobs than were lost, expanding the workforce rather than contracting it.

Yet today, something has fundamentally shifted. The new wave of technological advancements is playing by different rules. We increasingly know how to do more with less. Robots don’t tire, and algorithms don’t clock off at five. This unprecedented efficiency is reshaping the landscape of work, and the ripple effects could hollow out industries that once formed the backbone of human employment.

We can train engineers and technicians, yes, but this pales in comparison to the sheer scale of disruption. Even in sectors like renewable energy or healthcare—areas where human involvement might remain critical—automation's encroachment feels inevitable. And while these industries might grow, they simply aren’t going to scale up fast enough to absorb the displaced millions.

The Future of Humanity Is Humans

So, what’s the solution? It might seem counterintuitive, but the answer lies in doubling down on the very thing humans excel at: interacting with one another. At its heart, the future of humanity must be about humans helping humans.

There is no work more noble, no endeavor more fulfilling, than the act of directly aiding another person. Ask anyone who volunteers—it’s a calling steeped in mindfulness, compassion, and meaning. These are qualities that no machine, however sophisticated, can replicate. The essence of humanity is in the simple yet profound act of asking: Can I help you?

In the words of Cicero: Freedom is participation in power. As we face the challenges of automation and unemployment, we must embrace this ethos. True freedom doesn’t lie in individual wealth or status but in collective engagement.

Addressing the Great Hollowing Out

The "Great Hollowing Out" of employment is not just an economic crisis; it’s a crisis of identity. If millions find themselves without meaningful work, it won’t be enough to simply ensure they don’t starve through mechanisms like Universal Basic Income (UBI). While UBI could prevent destitution, it doesn’t solve the more profound question: What will people do with their time? How will they find purpose, dignity, and worth in a world where their labor is no longer required?

This is where we must reimagine the role of work and citizenship. A universal stipend could provide the foundation, but it should be designed to encourage participation, not passivity. People are not cattle to be managed, nor are they inherently lazy or stupid. For too long, those in power have thrived on the narrative that the masses are incapable of self-governance, justifying their own authority as a paternal necessity.

But what if that narrative is false? What if, given the right tools and opportunities, people are more than capable of participating meaningfully in shaping their communities and their futures?

Bridging the Digital Chasm

This is not just about economics; it’s about equity. The advent of these transformative technologies threatens to widen the gap between the "haves" and "have-nots." The digital divide could grow into an unbridgeable chasm, exacerbating inequality and fueling discontent.

To counter this, we must design systems that prioritize human connection and collaboration. Imagine a society where helping others becomes not just a moral virtue but a cornerstone of the economy. Instead of asking how machines can replace human effort, we should ask how they can enhance human interaction.

The Wisdom of Empathy

Ultimately, this vision hinges on empathy. It’s easy to hate or distrust people in the abstract, but those feelings often dissipate when we meet individuals face-to-face. When we connect with someone from a different "tribe," we usually find that they aren’t the caricature we imagined—and neither are we to them.

This is the essence of humanity: the capacity to see one another as individuals rather than abstractions. It’s how we’ve built societies, overcome conflicts, and thrived as a species. In the face of the Great Hollowing Out, we must lean into this strength.

A New Purpose

The technologies reshaping our world don’t have to define our future. If we embrace our humanity—our empathy, our creativity, and our capacity for connection—we can navigate this transformation not as victims but as architects. The future of work may not lie in traditional industries, but in something far more enduring: the age-old practice of humans helping humans.

Freedom, after all, is participation in power. And there is no greater power than the power of connection.

ALL THE SCREENS A STAGE: THE HYPERLUDIC UNFOLDING

You probably noticed another exponential shift in AI development last week, Continuing evidence of AI being the fourth hyperludic. A particularly fascinating aspect is how hyperludics trigger further explosive adoption once people experience their playful potential—when they realise that wonder and apprehension can happily coexist - it is after all the genuine original meaning of the word ‘awesome’.

"You can only laugh at that of which you are not afraid"

Just as the the last and current hyperludic; the printing press allowed the distribution of Shakespeare's works to ‘all the world’, so now we're witnessing AI's true creative capabilities beginning to capture the imagination of the wider general public. It’s this heady admix of fear and fascination that further propel adaption and adoption at an ever more unprecedented pace - just as it was the hive of activity of the curious drawn to the original print workshops that drove the growth of print almost as much as the technology itself.

A Legacy of Two Dimensions

For many centuries, the third hyperludic of print has reigned supreme as the ultimate amplifier of ideas. It has standardised how we read, write, and distribute knowledge. From Gutenberg’s Bible to newspapers and glossy magazines, it transformed communication into tidy, uniform blocks of black text on white pages. Even to this day our computers mostly mimic that same format: old-school Word docs, rigid web pages, an an internet still predominantly based on type.

And so, the printing press’ legacy lived on—until now.

Rise of the Fourth Hyperludic

AI is upending the older regime in much the same way the printing press once completely demolished the power and utility of scribal manuscripts. We’re right now in the midst of finally leaving behind a nearly six-hundred-year-old legacy of linear, static communication for something far wilder and more dynamic.

Almost all AI models with increasingly just an intuitive and simple prompts can spin any text into bespoke iterative images, it can produce tailored integrated audio accompaniments, or simulate entire 3D designs across an increasingly bedazzling array of styles and do so totally on the fly. In purely media terms we are witnessing nothing short than a creative “big bang” unheard of since the Renaissance - itself a result of the Printing Press.

Where the printing press gave us mass production, AI is giving us mass metamorphosis. Take the explosion of generative models like this weeks GPT-4 advanced graphic capabilities or new Gemini mode or XAI folding in X - all hailed as being new variants on “true multimodality.” They no longer spit out reams of text: they can simultaneously generate images, parse diagrams, create soundscapes, or translate instantly across languages. The result?

An entirely new dimension of communication, where ideas no longer sit still on a page but spin and weave across all of media at will.

“All the Screens a Stage”

This shift is bigger than just fancy features. Think about how society reoriented itself around the printing press:

• Standardised Literacy: Gutenberg turned reading into a widespread skill, eventually empowering newspapers and novels—and controlling who got heard.

• Gatekeepers: Editors, publishers, and academics became the gatekeepers, deciding what got printed and what stayed silent.

AI is now deconstructing that legacy at the atomic level. Instead of static, black-and-white pages, we have interactive interfaces, streaming text-to-image creation, real-time language translation, and digital “puppetry” that collapses the old media lines.

The phenomenon of anyone conjuring 3D models or producing entire documentary-style videos from a single prompt rewrites entire creative power structures.

Muscular Multimodality and the Decline of Scarcity

We praised the printing press for giving words “wings”—making them fly far. Now AI can make them dance, sing, and morph. The old gatekeepers will find themselves being side-stepped at lightning speed.

That’s going to increasingly become the new normal and yes, many of those born inside the Gutenberg Parenthesis will lament the fading smell of ink on paper or chunter on and on about the flood of AI-generated slop. And it is true we will be losing what the poet beautifully described as “the solemn black-on-white hush.”

But sadly that hush never came with a guarantee of permanence—it was a legacy of the printing press. And another trait of the hyperludics is that they inevitably subsume and succeed over the previous dominator. The original disruptor is in turn doomed to be the first casualty of the next.

AI is simply the next hyperludic accelerant, and it is inheriting all of print’s empire and swallowing it whole.

The friction is very real. Journalists rightly worry about deepfakes; educators worry about AI-ghostwritten papers. Copyright, which once hinged on controlling text, is at war with AI’s wild capacity to remix anything and everything. The old world is being left reeling in its wake.

The Ever Shifting Shape of Things to Come

With the very latest twist of xAI merging with X we see the rise of new “hyperludic nerve centres”- what were once printing houses or publishers now become generative models that can fuel constant present-tense multimodal conversation: paving the way for new forms of media platforms that shape-shift in real time, with ideas flowing and growing - creating, for good or ill - a vast, spontaneous, perpetual, global late night bull session.

“Entropy With a Steering Wheel”

There is a playful way to see it: AI is “chaos we can surf.” Sure, it can feel frenetic—but we also get to harness all that new found entropy, guiding it toward new forms of expression, collaboration, and business innovation. It’s the difference between a meltdown and a renaissance, between letting the waves wipe you out or learning to ride them.

If the printing press democratised access to the written word, AI is democratising the production of everything: images, music, code, business strategies, interactive 3D worlds. The magic emerges when humans stop viewing it as a threat and start collaborating with it, using it as an amplifying force to break creative blocks, prototype at scale, or unify far-flung teams.

In this hyperludic unfolding, the winners aren’t necessarily the biggest incumbents but the most playful adapters—those who see AI’s “multimodal muscle” as an invitation to experiment, rather than a machine to fear.

From Pages to Perpetual Possibilities

We must brace ourselves to soon deliver the elegy of the page as the final destination for ideas. The printing press bestrode our world for nearly six centuries. AI is its worthy successor ushering in a new era of infinite possibilities

This hyperludic unfolding isn't merely a technological shift but a fundamental reimagining of how we humans express, share, and build upon ideas. That old black-and-white hush is rapidly giving way to a symphony of colour, sound, shape, and new forms of storytelling—a creative new renaissance that democratises production while challenging almost all our frameworks that were founded on its predeccesor .

Those who thrive won't be those who resist this transformation, but those who learn to collaborate with it—surfing the chaos rather than being wiped out by it.

The hyperludic stage is set, and we all have an invite to perform.

2x AI's having a conversation about Bridge & Funnel skills

On Tuesday as part of a presentation about the likely future for AI I spoke about the increasing importance of developing ‘Bridge & Funnel’ skills.

I sincerely believe these will increasingly become as fundamentally important for life in our AI world as reading and writing became after the invention of the printing press.

In the spirit of striving to remain beyond horizon’s edge when it comes to my own use of AI I decided I’d give access to everything I have developed on Bridge and Funnel to a couple of AI’s and let them offer their own explanations, thoughts and opinions on it.

I can not stress enough: This audio is entirely AI created - I had no part whatsoever in writing or editing any of the dialogue nor in producing the vocals and characteristics - all of this is completely and 100% AI generated.

I hope you find it informative whilst also seeing it as providing proof that when I say AI is developing exponentially fast I really do mean it.

Enjoy -and please talk to the real me if it convinces you of the importance of Bridge & Funnel

AI: The Four Futures for Small Businesses

AI: The Four Futures For Small Business

We know a good business strategy essentially boils down to correctly identifying one or two critical issues before concentrating appropriate degrees of resources and actions on them.

Unfortunately, when it comes to forming good strategy for AI there currently exists no reliably proven map, guide-line or precedent to help you identify what those critical issues are and which resources or actions you need to concentrate on them.

The whole field is simply too young and too rapidly evolving to get any kind of realistic, usable fix on what the future may hold.

However, what we can do is extrapolate the four most probable scenarios for AI’s future thus giving you scope to prepare.

Giving at least some consideration to each will go some way to preventing the inertia or panic of future shock if and when that scenario occurs.

Ultimately the one you concentrate on may come down to your own personal perception of the most likely future but what I will stress is the one thing you and your business absolutely should not be doing is nothing.   

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1) Plateaued Development: The Long, Flat Road

In this scenario AI slows down after reaching certain levels of capability. Innovations become incremental, transformative breakthroughs happen but are rare.

Implications

Positives

• Cost: AI becomes more affordable as it commoditises allowing your business to adopt to technologies without significant investment.

• Competitive Parity: Since breakthroughs are rare, you can compete on a more level playing field with larger firms by leveraging widely available AI tools.

• Focus on Integration: The emphasis shifts to effectively integrating and optimising existing AI technologies within current business processes rather than constantly upgrading to new systems.

Negatives

• The Apprentice Trap: Your business increasingly outsources to AI to minor repetitive, unfulfilling tasks and functions, unfortunately these are types of work usually carried out by junior members of staff which acts as pathway to becoming experienced and senior employees.

Immediate Strategic Actions

• Invest in training employees to maximise use of current AI tools.

• Adopt ‘4C’s Training’ as a tool to ensure skill loss does not inhibit or stifle future growth.

• Focus on customer service and personalised experiences, use AI to streamline operations rather than drive innovation.

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2) Linear Development: The Rolling Hills

Here AI capabilities continue to improve at a steady, predictable rate, leading to consistent but incremental enhancements in technology.

Implications

• Incremental Upgrades: Plan and budget for gradual AI improvements, avoiding the disruptions of sudden, massive changes.

• Steady ROI: Investments in AI yield reliable returns, enabling you to enhance efficiency and productivity over time.

• Incremental Competitive Edge: Staying updated with AI advancements provides a steady competitive edge without the risk of falling behind quickly.

Negatives

• “If you are not disrupting your business somebody else is”. Competition becomes fierce as general AI becomes capable of increasingly diverse skills and abilities some or many of which may have been your own unique selling points.

Immediate Strategic Actions

• Establish a roadmap for regular AI upgrades and training.

• Optimise AI for process improvements, such as automating routine tasks, enhancing data analysis, and improving decision-making processes.

• Establish a moat, or better still an asteroid field around your business to retains its uniqueness and prevent  easy competitive replication.

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3) Exponential Development: The steep Mountains

In this scenario AI grows rapidly, with frequent, transformative breakthroughs which continuously redefine the tech and business landscape.

Implications

• Rapid Adaptation Required: Small businesses must be agile and ready to adopt new technologies quickly to stay competitive.

• Increased Productivity: Exponential AI growth can significantly enhance productivity and innovation, offering small businesses opportunities to scale efficiently.

• Risk of Obsolescence: Businesses that fail to keep pace with AI advancements risk falling behind rapidly.

Immediate Strategic Actions

• Foster a culture of continuous learning and innovation among employees.

• Constant Iterative development of products and services rather than waterfall launches becomes most viable form of doing business.

• Invest in scalable AI solutions and maintain flexibility in business models to adapt to rapid technological changes.

• Collaborate hard wide and often with AI vendors and consultants to remain at the forefront of technological developments.

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4) AGI Development: The Orbital Lift-Off

Artificial General Intelligence means AI achieves human-like intelligence and can perform any human intellectual task.

Implications

• Science Fictions Become Facts: Be wary of anyone who offers anything concrete or definitive on what to expect at this point beyond expecting the unexpected. This scenario is what we would call an Out Of Context problem in that we have absolutely nothing beyond conjecture and speculation to go on to assess its impact.

• Transformational Impact: AGI revolutionises every aspect of your business operations, from decision-making to customer interactions & strategic planning itself.

• New Business Models: AGI render traditional business models obsolete, necessitating complete rethink of value propositions & competitive strategies.

• Ethical and Regulatory Challenges: The deployment of AGI would bring significant ethical, legal, and regulatory considerations, especially for small businesses without dedicated compliance resources.

Strategic Actions

• Engage in continuous iterative strategic foresight to anticipate prepare for AGI’s impact on you your business your sector, your industry and even the whole world.

• Develop ethical guidelines and frameworks for the future use of AGI within the business.

• Explore wide multiple and enduring partnerships across sectors, organisations and industry groups to navigate regulatory and ethical landscape of AGI.

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Boltzmann Bolts - AI hypothesising its own future

I regularly feed AI the a ‘state of play’ regarding most recent advances in computation, chips, tech development etc and then ask it to use a similar technique used by Boltzmann Machines algorithms inside AI to exponentially project potential short medium and long term futures based on that information

This weeks offerings included:

• The Birth of Hyper-Adaptive AI: Beyond mere increases in processing speeds, we anticipate the emergence of AI that can fundamentally restructure its underlying algorithms in real-time. This hyper-adaptive AI would not only optimize for efficiency but also for creativity, empathy, and ethical considerations, potentially leading to AI companions capable of genuine personal growth alongside their human counterparts.

• Autonomous AI Economies: The rise of AI GPU chips with trillions of transactions per second could enable the creation of fully autonomous AI economies. Within these economies, AI agents would trade resources, services, and digital goods, potentially leading to new forms of economic structures that operate parallel to human economies, with their own currencies, markets, and regulations.

• Biotechnological Rebirth: As computational power continues to scale, the fusion of AI with synthetic biology could lead to what might be termed a "biotechnological rebirth." This would enable the design of living organisms at the genetic level for specific purposes, such as carbon capture, renewable energy production, or even the creation of new forms of life that can thrive in extreme conditions, paving the way for terraforming projects or extraterrestrial colonization.

• Decentralized Autonomous Societies (DAS): Beyond economies, we envision the emergence of fully decentralized autonomous societies. These societies would operate on blockchain technologies, with AI algorithms managing not just the economy but also societal rules, governance, and resource allocation. DAS would allow for the experimentation with entirely new social systems, potentially creating models of living that prioritize sustainability, equity, and consensus far beyond today's standards.

• Neuro-Synthetic Interfaces: As computational power and AI capabilities continue to expand, so too will our ability to interface directly with digital environments. Neuro-synthetic interfaces would allow humans to connect their neural networks with AI, leading to enhanced cognitive abilities, memory storage, and even direct mind-to-mind communication. This could herald a new era of collective consciousness, where individual experiences and knowledge are seamlessly integrated into a shared digital psyche.

• Personal AI Developers: With the democratization and demonetization of AI and technology, the future could see every individual having their own AI developer. These personal AI entities could create customized software, apps, and digital experiences tailored to the individual's needs and desires, making the current one-size-fits-all approach to technology obsolete. This would not only revolutionize personal productivity and entertainment but also accelerate innovation as personalized AI solutions inspire new, widely applicable technologies.

• AI-driven Evolutionary Design: Leveraging generative AI and advanced computational power, we could witness the rise of AI-driven evolutionary design in architecture, urban planning, and product development. These AI systems would simulate evolutionary processes to "grow" designs that are perfectly adapted to their intended use, environment, and user preferences, combining aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability in ways previously unimaginable.

• Interstellar Information Networks: The rapid advancement in computing power could finally make it feasible to establish interstellar information networks. Using a combination of advanced AI, quantum communications, and nanotechnology, humanity could send streams of data across the cosmos, potentially communicating with other civilizations or creating a galactic internet. This would not only revolutionize our understanding of the universe but also expand the human presence far beyond the physical confines of Earth.

The problem with The Three Body Problem

Netflix are currently streaming an adaptation of the Chinese Sci-Fiction series of novels commonly titled the Thee Body problem which has as its premise the idea (once again) of humanity encountering an advanced but malignant alien species.

I realise that ultimately all such genre is really just a reflection of our own fears around the ill intent of the tribe next door but I’ve come to resent it because it simply doesn’t make any sense if you come a bit closer to fire to see better what it is we are talking about.

What all films about Earth being invaded have to first get you to accept is that a species, having advanced enough to be capable of discovering & deploying faster than light travel, would also, for inexplicable reasons, have not bothered evolving its cultural ethos beyond ruthless domination and savage conquest. That the need to ravage and forcibly plunder wouldn’t in any way dwindle once you’ve reached the intelligence capable of manipulating matter at a sub-atomic level.

In the end we always extrapolate aliens as being but just more us - I think it was was Von Daniken who suggested the Peruvian Nazca lines were in fact runways built by aliens - invoking a civilisation in possession of craft capable of crossing entire galaxies but which could only land and take off like B52's.

The Three Body Problem is based on what is know as The Dark Forest Hypothesis- that Humanity has to keep schtum in case a superior civilisation spots us and gobbles us up - which is itself sublimely reductionist in taking us all the way way back to when we were mouse sized entities scurrying amidst the ferns trying to avoid being eaten by dinosaurs

Curious how it is the antithesis to the Star Trek ‘to boldly go’ here instead our grand mission statement seems to be ‘to quake with uncertainly like no one has quaked before’ - an interesting reflection of the zeitgeist perhaps?

My issue with the entire premise of the Dark Forest is that curiosity is the absolute primary accelerator behind knowledge, intelligence and the quest for wisdom.

It is the drive to investigate & solve problems which fosters progress and development - a risk averse non curious species wouldn’t and couldn’t advance to being contactable - the urge to discover is either unique to humanity so we’re alone or shared as a Universal so why would neighbours who possess that commonality ignore one another’s existence?

Curiosity triumphing over fear is what makes us ‘boldly go” in the first place.

Exponential Thinking is a Bug Out Bag for your brain

In case you weren’t aware a Bug-Out Bag is a portable kit that normally contains the items one would require to survive for 72 hours when evacuating from a disaster.

There primary purpose is to allow individuals to have all the necessary supplies to "bug out" or quickly leave in the event of an emergency, ensuring they have access to basic necessities like water, food, clothing, first aid supplies, communication devices, and other survival gear.

Bug-Out Bags are a key part of emergency preparedness planning for many people, aiming to provide peace of mind and increase the chances of survival during unforeseen circumstances or disasters.

Just as a physical Bug-Out Bag contains essential tools and supplies for survival in a crisis, exponential thinking equips individuals and organisations with the cognitive tools and frameworks needed to navigate and thrive amidst rapid technological advancements and societal changes.

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Exponential Thinking As an Intellectual Bug-Out Bag

Just as a Bug-Out Bag prepares you for physical survival in emergencies, exponential thinking prepares your mind to anticipate and adapt to rapid changes. It helps you foresee potential disruptions and opportunities, allowing for swift and informed decision-making.

In uncertain times, exponential thinking provides the resilience needed to face challenges head-on. It's akin to having a well-packed Bug-Out Bag that offers comfort and security, knowing you have the necessary tools to survive and thrive, no matter the circumstances.

Just as a Bug-Out Bag contains a variety of tools for different scenarios, exponential thinking fosters cognitive flexibility, enabling individuals and organisations to pivot quickly in response to new information or changing environments.

Knowing what to pack in a Bug-Out Bag requires understanding what's essential for survival. Similarly, exponential thinking helps in strategically allocating resources (time, money, effort) to where they can have the most significant impact, especially in fast-moving sectors.

Just as having a Bug-Out Bag ready empowers individuals to take immediate action in a crisis, exponential thinking empowers individuals and businesses to proactively embrace change, rather than reacting defensively or being paralyzed by fear of the unknown.

Exponential thinking is an intellectual Bug-Out Bag, not just for survival in a rapidly changing world but for seizing opportunities and innovating in the face of adversity. It's about being ready, adaptable, and equipped to navigate the future, no matter how unpredictable it may be.

AI Now Smarter than Humans?

AI Now Smarter than Humans?

When judged using the standard Norway Mesa IQ test the new Claude 3 model from Anthropic shows for the first time a publicly accesible AI that displays higher IQ than the average human.

Inevitably there'll be a lot of thrashing about in the weeds around what this actually means, but far more importantly is that we simply have to stop being surprised by such developments. AI is simply going do what AI does and that is develop exponentially and if you've yet to ponder upon what that actually means I really urge you to do so.

Most recent data on the impact of AI on various professions

Exponentiate! Exponentiate!

It is vital to understand the exponential nature of AI learning - it doesn't not just learn - it takes in all current learning incorporates everything it learnt previously and adds everything every other version of itself has learnt

This is exactly the same image generator using exactly the same prompt: ‘create a dalek-cyberman hybrid’ just 12 weeks apart - I added no further input on Doctor Who yet it incorporated the traditional silver and bronze colouring, the plunger, eyestalk, and head handles etc

A recent radio interview in which I wax lyrical about AI for an hour

AI continues to flatter me in what it seems to believe I actually look like

Navigating Ethical AI: Choosing the right compass

It becomes harder by the day to deny that AI is very rapidly transforming the way all businesses operate.

While AI brings immense potential, it also comes with serious ethical responsibilities.

Increasingly companies need to ensure their AI systems are developed and used in a responsible and ethical manner.

But with the ever-expanding landscape of AI ethics, how do you choose the right framework that aligns with your company's unique needs?

In June the Centre For Security and Emerging Technologies published its Matrix for selecting Responsible AI Frameworks

The report critiques and assesses the frameworks of 40 leading AI companies and includes important matrices of which does and doesn’t covers what.

Having read and digested it I can say it’s unlikely to be flying off airport shelves, but in side its density it does lay out some compelling insights and very useful directions of travel for companies incorporating AI. Below I offer a brief but far from exhaustive outline.

Utility Dimension: A NEw COMPASS

This can act as a guiding compass for organisations seeking to navigate the complex terrain of responsible AI.

This dimension categorises ethical AI frameworks into three key areas: Components, Lifecycle, and Characteristics, each tailored to address different aspects of AI implementation and ethics.

1. Components: Building Ethical Foundations

If your company's focus is on the nuts and bolts of AI development, then the "Components" category is your go-to resource. These frameworks dissect AI systems into their smaller building blocks, paying close attention to the technical aspects:

Example: Datasheets for Datasets – This framework emphasises the importance of documenting critical details about the datasets used in machine learning models. By ensuring transparency and accountability in data usage, your Development and Production teams can build AI models with ethical data practices at their core.

2. Lifecycle: Managing the AI Journey Holistically

For organizations that want to manage AI projects from start to finish, "Lifecycle" frameworks provide the roadmap you need. These frameworks guide you through the entire AI system journey – from inception to deployment and beyond:

Example: Reviewable Automated Decision-Making: A Framework for Accountable Algorithmic Systems – This framework breaks down the AI system's lifecycle into stages, such as commissioning, model building, decision-making, and investigation. It offers valuable guidance at each stage, ensuring a holistic approach to responsible AI.

3. Characteristics: Ethical Principles in Action

Ethical characteristics like fairness, transparency, and privacy are at the forefront of responsible AI. If your company values align with these principles, then "Characteristics" frameworks are your allies:

Example: Google's Responsible AI Practices – This framework places emphasis on principles like fairness, interpretability, privacy, and security. It provides actionable guidance on how to implement these characteristics in your AI systems, aligning them with societal and ethical norms.

Choosing the Right Framework for Your Needs

The Utility Dimension recognises that different teams within your organisation may have varying responsibilities when it comes to responsible AI.

By categorising frameworks into Components, Lifecycle, and Characteristics, it ensures that you can select the ones that best align with your unique objectives and team roles.

For instance, your Development and Production team, deeply involved in the technical aspects, may find "Components" frameworks most relevant. Meanwhile, your Governance team, responsible for oversight and compliance, might lean towards "Lifecycle" and "Characteristics" frameworks to ensure responsible AI practices across the organisation.

In a world where ethical AI is no longer a buzzword but a necessity, the "Utility Dimension" offers a strategic approach to responsible AI. It helps your company choose the right tool for the job, align responsible AI practices with your goals, and make a positive impact on society while embracing the power of AI.

So, as you embark on your ethical AI journey, remember: Your path to responsible AI starts with choosing the right framework that suits your company's needs and values. Allow the Utility Dimension be your compass – use it wisely and navigate the exciting world of ethical AI with confidence!

If your business has, or is about to take the plunge into AI then I suggest we talk. One of the points of Brainstorm is that I happily and deeply absorb these things and turn them into plain English so you don’t have to.

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Economics of Data Abundance: How to sail the 4 C's

You’ve probably noticed that going from coal to chips to internet to AI is a continuous journey of increased abstraction and that’s not great for creatures like us who have mostly evolved for millions of years to identify ‘hard issues’ like ripe fruit and unexpected incisors in the grabbing area.

But like it or not data is the new coal. It was the abundance of coal that fuelled the Industrial Revolution, and the economics of its abundance was at the heart of all the transformations it brought.

In our own age the microchip revolution drove the marginal cost of data computation to near-zero levels. The advent of the internet did the same for data distribution. Now, the widespread adoption of artificial intelligence is poised to reduce the marginal cost of data creation and creativity to near-zero.

And like coal, the microchip, and the internet before it, it looks like what it will not be doing is produce the logically expected outcome of a reduction in use due to a rise in efficiency

This phenomenon, known as Jevon’s Paradox, is named after William Stanley Jevon who noticed that increases in energy production efficiency lead to more, not less, consumption - in other words as technological improvements increase the efficiency of the resource used, the rate of consumption of that resource may actually rise instead of fall.

This paradox serves as the catalyst for this paradigm shift where AI and the resulting data-driven insights and creativity is rapidly redefining all and every kind of parameter; operational efficiency, branding marketing, strategy, decision-making etc. The list of things that involve human thinking that aren’t being impacted by AI is shrinking by the day.

But how can we navigate with confidence amidst these new vast unexplored oceans of knowledge?

Sailing the 4 C’s

My assessment is that there are broadly 4 principles ways of viewing and utilising AI and if you remain bounded to it as acting as one or more of the following you can retain a sense of control over whatever it is doing.

Creative Assistant

Accepting that AI can serves as a catalyst for all forms of creativity. From automating routine tasks to generating startling philosophic insights, suggesting recipes and exploring plotlines the limitations are bounded only by the creativity you have in dreaming them up.

The major problems seems to be the difficulty in leaning into it in the first place but once you do you soon realise how useful it is as as a genuine practical asset for creative problem-solving.

Or In the realm of personal development and hobbies Whether it's helping you learn a new instrument through smart tutorials or suggesting new recipes based on your dietary preferences, AI can inspire and facilitate creative endeavours. It's not just about doing things faster; it's about expanding horizons and enabling you to try stuff you never thought you’d have the resources to try

Consultant & Coach

Look upon AI as a useful consultant, one who offers real-time insights, advice guidance and useful actionable recommendations. Unlike traditional consultancy AI is continuous, tireless and you don’t have to sell your soul to pay for its day rates

Or, think of it as having a life coach available 24/7, offering real-time advice on everything from relationship issues to personal finance. AI can serve this role too, providing insights based on data you might not even be aware you're generating. It can help you make more informed decisions, offering guidance when you're unsure what step to take next in pretty much every aspect of your life

Co-Pilot

AI actively acts as a willing eager (sometimes too eager) co-pilot and general factotum in every kind of task across the board.

It’s another case of have to learn to lean into its at first quite startling capacity offering optimised courses of action.

Like all good pilots you have to keep at least one finger on the tiller, it’s when you let Ai do all the work that you’ll start to run into issues and problems - hence co-pilot not Pilot

Correcting

The Path of Persistent Iteration

For me this is the big one. One of the biggest shifts I’ve seen is this. We have become completely used to only launching "perfected" product or service that are then rigid and difficult to amend. "Correcting" seems to be replacing "Correctness," with a shift to emphasising a mindset of persistent iteration.

With the agility and computational power of AI, companies and people can continuously "trim-tab" (. For the uninitiated, "trim-tabbing" refers to making small adjustments to a larger system, much like a trim tab on a ship's rudder makes it easier to steer the entire vessel" AI allows for real-time refinements and data-driven optimisations so you can adjust and ‘course correct’ as needs be.

This is one of the things I think business and society in general is going to be most resistant and find most difficult to adjust to as it requires a philosophic and reality altering step change

We are very very used to most things broadly persisting in the same form over time (well we think we do, we just don’t examine things hard enough to see the ‘flux in everything and everything in flux’ that Buddhist are always going on about) but AI seems to have little or no problem adjusting ‘reality’ ad hoc. This amorphous/ morphing can be observed in trends in creative digital imagery and art - amazing but still fixed images were all the rage until about three weeks ago, now movement is increasingly being incorporated simply because AI can.

From my own perspective I’ll be turning this blog post into a video as soon as I’ve published it - again because AI lets me do so with relative ease, now I don’t think my efforts will have Kubrick seeking sanctuary in the Overlook anytime soon but still I’m able to create in ways that were economically and technically impossible just a few years ago and I get to edit and iterate as I go.

Conclusion

(This is not a 5th C, I just can’t think of another suitable title)

So we have to accept landscape is shifting before our eyes, driven by the near-zero marginal costs of data computation, distribution, and now creativity. To navigate these unchartered waters, embrace the 4C's—Creative Assistant, Consultant, Co-Pilot, & Correcting and bon voyage.

AI: The Even Bigger Bang Part 2: Evidence & Ways Forward

AI: Evidence of Disruption

If you’re still unconvinced whether AI is that big of a deal…

Over the last three months social scientists from Harvard, MIT & The Warwick Business School have been conducting multiple experiments and hundreds of interviews with 758 consultants from the Boston Consulting Group.

Eighteen different types of task were selected, each to be a realistic sample of the kinds of work done within an elite consulting company with a revenue of $11.2 Billion.

The bottom line is that the consultants using ChatGPT-4 outperformed those who didn’t on every dimension in every single way of measuring performance.

The ones using AI on average finished 12.2% more tasks, completed those tasks 25.1% more quickly, and produced 40% higher quality results than those who were not using AI.

Noteworthy was just how much AI acted as a skill leveller.

Those consultants who scored the worst when assessed at the start of the experiments had a 43% jump in performance, when they got to use AI. The top consultants still got a boost, but less so.

Consider what it could mean when potentially all your workers suddenly become top tier performers?

Perhaps in the same way weavers were once judged good or bad on how deftly they could weave until the Spinning Jenny was invented and made those differences moot.

And still no one yet knows the full range of what AI can do. No one knows the best ways to use it and no one knows the conditions under which it fails to perform. There is no instruction book. On some things AI is immensely powerful, on others it sucks. But, unless you use AI a lot, you simply can’t know which is which.

This does mean AI is still some way from replacing all human intervention, which is fine because we’ve survived as a species knowing the necessity of keeping some kind of eye on the ball or hand on the tiller as we like unpredictable things not to go entirely unsupervised; sheep, crowds, children etc. We instinctively know letting going completely is not wise and we should continue to trust in these types of instincts which AI does not have.  

But it is also all the more reason for us to have a hand on that tiller. We are in the midst of this new Big Bang and the question is no longer is AI going to change the way we work and do business, the question is what do we want those profound changes to look like?

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So, Where to now, Captain?

As mentioned previously one way to react to AI is to keep your ship nicely tucked up safe and sound in harbour, yes it will be safe but that’s not what ships are for.

To stretch this metaphor in the current much disputed waters of AI, one way you could react is to adopt a sort of Privateer mind set; half pirate half authorised venturer.

At least until some kind of order is imposed and the Union Jack flies from every port.

But for now the helm is absolutely yours and yours alone.

Like all adventures first you are going to need a plan and the temptation will be to go off and look up AI Planning experts. My advice is: Don’t.

We’re still right at the very beginning of this Bigger Bang which means we are still in the huge un-chartered waters of a brand-new disruptive technology. That means nobody really knows too much about the best ways to use it, but what they certainly don’t know is the best ways for your own business to use it. You do need some guidance but not the traditional type.

At some point you will need to simply head out into open water but first it is probably a good idea to get someone like me in to show you basic AI map & compass skills and perhaps give your crew a few swimming lessons - or at least some how-not-to-drown lessons.

But your overall aim is still to get under sail and start actually exploring. Only then can you hope to figure just what exactly is out there for you and your business.

Something worth remembering is that even the scientists and engineers who have designed & implemented AI itself , as smart as they are, have no greater expertise on how AI can best be used, or even how and when it should be used.

So, here I stress be wary of being offered ‘old wine in new bottles’, there will no doubt be a proliferation of expertise offering businesses what will turn out to be solutions to old style problems that have been repackaged and repurposed as AI solutions.

On the other hand be equally wary of anyone claiming that someone with total expertise of AI itself is what you need. As an example here’s the basic skill tree for an AI Machine Learning expert, Machine Learning or ML is a core principle of AI.

Now, I’m nerdy enough have a core understanding of most of the above but that’s because I have to in order to translate it into plain English for normal people who have better things to do than live and breathe the technical aspects of AI.

But, be honest would it be likely that someone with such an in depth expertise of ML would be best placed for recognising the particular needs of your business or the issues your sector faces?

Absolute experts are not going to be of best use, nor are those who present you with perfectly good but old wine in new bottles.   

At this stage what you’re looking for is someone who’s AI confident but with enough self-awareness to know they don’t know all the answers but does know where best to look for them.

Perhaps someone who seems to be able to communicate the genuine strangeness and power of AI but remains grounded in the reality of the needs for small and medium sized businesses.

And if you’re still trying to figure out who that might possibly be I’m demanding a complete refund from that charm school I signed up for.

Ultimately you are the one who must make the decisions around AI and its place in your business. I can offer you help, guidance and ideas but they say’ to govern is to choose’ and the AI tide is ever rising and the time to make those choices is now.

If this has struck a suitable chord then may I remind you I offer a free half hour exploratory call where you can discuss anything at all around AI and its implications for you and your business. Click the button to book.

Edition 5 : The Serious Issue of the Even Bigger Bang

AI: The even Bigger Bang

Starting in the mid ‘80’s I worked in The City at the heart of the chaotic whirlwind of ‘The Big Bang’.

You could literally see a new world evolve in front of your eyes; elder gents in pin stripe suits got ever rarer whilst big shiny new buildings became ubiquitous. All of it driven by new tech as data effortlessly leapt from hard copy to floppy to real time.

The results were staggering; jobs in finance went from 90,000 to 325,000, the number of foreign banks went from under 40 to over 160 and, in just three years LSE share turnover went from £700 million to just over £2 billion.

For my part I went from paper based data analyst to training very tech-resistant old school brokers who for over a century had practised the frenetic “Sell, Sell, Sell! Buy, Buy, Buy!” of Open Outcry and now had to learn to utilise the far faster, far more accurate and far more efficient but much less theatrical electronic dealing systems.

Many of those Dealing Rooms were still run like an Edwardian public school common room. I had one chap casually set fire to the copy of the FT his colleague was engrossed in, another never stopped playing poker with his rival at the opposite end of the dealing floor, using hand gestures and a runner to distribute cards, chips and winnings.

They were not alone in their resistance, there were major institutions that remained reluctant to change even in the face of inevitability. I spotted a cushion on the sofa of the MD of a now long defunct private bank, it read ‘old age and deceit will always overcome youth and enthusiasm’. Wise words or gallows humour?

But even though it was in a permanent state of upheaval The City as a whole knew it had to do what it had to do. It had over decades become disastrously complacent and was fast being wholly eclipsed by both New York and Tokyo whilst Frankfurt, Paris & Amsterdam were poised and eager to snatch its crown.

The Big Bang was planned and executed in remarkably quick time even though the outcomes were uncertain, there was a take your medicine method amidst all the madness.

But today with the advent of AI no such planning has been instigated which is a worry as this is another much much Bigger Bang and this time it’s on a truly global scale.

What can we do?

Even if we halted all work on AI today estimates say is it’d be at least two years before we worked out the scope of capabilities of what Chat GPT4 is capable of.

So we’re aware this is not some fad or flash in the pan and who knows, you may ignore it and hope that in the end AI won’t really change things that much. If you do I can guarantee that people around you won’t and if they work for you, they’ll find covert ways to use it without you knowing about it.

You can try and outlaw it from your business, which is really just an extreme way of ignoring it only this time you want everyone else to ignore it as well. Good luck with that as we both know your people will still continue to use it (on their phones, at home, at lunch, in the loos etc) and you still won’t know what they’re doing.

You could trust traditional business wisdom which would be to implement some kind of internal centralised system. Which means you get to control it and you and the Senior Management Team can make the decisions about how AI will be used- all be it based on your limited experience and understanding.

This way seems understandable as it’s the usual business standard for what is done in the face of new tech; you shop around and eventually you buy in the expertise along with some kind of pre-packaged system which allows you set policies on use, monitor usage and keep your data ring fenced.

Which should work because it’s worked with every previous tech advance, it must work otherwise why would these systems cost a fortune to install, integrate and then train everyone to use?

Well, remember the saying about how Generals are always fighting the last war?  From a business angle buying in a systemised centralised AI is like digging a trench in response to the other side having just unveiled its new fleet of Challenger 2s.  

Because AI simply isn’t in any way built for doing this - at all. If AI is anything it’s the complete opposite.

There’s no advantage. Chat GPT is the most advanced AI available, and it is free for everyone via Bing, or for a small monthly fee from Open AI. The size and nature of a business offers no special access whatsoever to anything better. None at all.

But let’s say you go ahead. Now what? What are you hoping to achieve?  So far there’s no evidence or reason to believe any organisation anywhere (including the people who built the AI in the first place) has or are going to ever be experts at understanding how AI can best help anyone they employ with their problems or task. They’re more likely to be really bad at knowing let alone figuring out the best uses for AI.

This is because AI is designed to be extremely good at being ‘present problem context centric’ which means it’s the individual or small team that are always going to be best placed to know the problems they need to solve. It is those at the actual coal face who will always be best placed to find uses for what AI can do.

Meanwhile your brand new system is stymying everything in every way. You have to monitor its use and your people will all know they are being monitored, and they’ll face punishment if they use it in some as yet to be defined wrong way. So, what will they do? They are smart and they’ll quickly find workarounds mostly by using the freely available AI (at lunch, at home, in the loos) and if need be then transferring the results to your system which means you have just gone to great lengths to install what is ultimately a very expensive filing cabinet filled with things that are not actually very useful, interesting or in any way reflect the kind of hugely powerful things AI can achieve.

It's a bit like the WW2 scenario where the Special Operations Executive in Washington allegedly had a state-of-the-art underground bunker with rows and rows of sleek, steel filing cabinets – all of them empty. Meanwhile Bletchley Park was beavering away in a bunch of draughty Nissen huts stuffed to the gunnels with shoeboxes overflowing with real useful usable data.  

In this context I have to say AI is a bit of a Great British dream scenario: AI is an incredibly useful but complex and challenging problem that is absolutely crying out for practical ‘lash-ups’, ‘workarounds’ and ‘whatever works now’ rather than idealised theoreticals. There may be good reasons our own Alan Turing was the (extremely bright) spark that kicked AI off.

So, to opt for any kind of One-Size-Fits-Nobody top-down approach to AI is fighting the last war purely because that’s the war you know how to fight.

AI is Not Jam

The problem is AI isn’t jam. By trying to label AI as being ‘akin to’ or ‘like’ some or other technology you know about completely fails to see just how startling different it is.

We can’t yet put precise labels on AI because we don’t yet have a label that adequately encompass let alone describe what it can do.

To put it another way AI has so many potential viable labels that no single one is even barely adequate at describing what it does with any accuracy to makes the label valid.  

The Buddhists seem to have captured it quite well; a philosophy as deep as it is ancient boils down to the premise: 

“Don’t apply labels to things because labels sets a thing in stone, and you come a cropper when that label turns out not to be an accurate reflection of the thing you’ve labelled.”

Now obviously, I’m very much simplifying 2,000 years of wisdom for the sake of convenience, but you get the gist.

Being un-label-able is AI’s great strength - a genuine feature and not at all a bug - as it allows AI to act as a force multiplier for any individual or small team enabling them to do a tremendous amount of work, but it is a different sort of work.

AI is like having an incredibly keen, bright and ever eager unpaid Intern who absolutely laps up doing all (and I mean ALL) the tedious repetitive tasks we probably loathe having to do -  by doing this it frees you to concentrate almost entirely on the interesting, innovative tasks you went to work for in the first place - and as an extra enormous bonus it allow you to hugely multiply the effect of those tasks and the results gained.

But In doing this the very nature of what we mean by work faces a genuine paradigm shift in ways that can seem uncomfortable, unknowable and risky. What we do know is that our current systems really aren’t built for it at all and that this new Ubiquitous Big Bang we are in the middle of needs to be urgently not just looked at but urgently acted upon.

Right now, the most advanced uses and discoveries in AI’s potential is being done by individuals like me. That’s not a brag, humble or otherwise it’s just people like me are (like AI) already ‘decentralised’ & unconstrained by specific business models and right now there’s simply no way for companies to harness the power and creativity over AI without finding and adopting a broadly similar ethos.

Only innovation driven by individuals or small teams can transform work in the way it has to transform, because only individual workers or small teams can experiment enough on their own tasks to learn how to use AI in transformative ways. Sadly, empowering workers is often not feasible with our current old school top-down solutions.

But I wouldn’t be worth my salt if I didn’t offer a way forward and in my next blog post I’ll be doing just that.

In the meantime if any of the above has struck a chord I offer a free thirty minute discovery call where we can discuss anything you want around AI and your business just click below to book.

The AI Pantheon, (shamelessly purloined from the Romans just as they purloined it from the Greeks )

If we know one thing about the Romans it’s that if you took your eye of your good idea for one second they’d have it stuffed in their togas and be hot sandling away down the new stright road before you could say Ave.

You have to admire a people who basically went to Athens and wandered off with their entire Pantheon

So, as we’re pushing this AI Rome for all its worth we may as well do to the Romans what they did to the Greeks. It’s also a fun way for me to show off just how good AI generated images have become.

Here then are the new twelve AI gods, each representing essential aspects of AI development and technology. These hypothetical AI gods draw inspiration from classical deities while reflecting the key aspects of AI development, ethics, and functionality.

Each reflects aspects of their respective counterparts in classical Roman mythology while embodying attributes that align with AI's development, ethics, and technological advancements. This mapping allows for a creative and imaginative exploration of AI's impact on the modern world, much like the roles of gods in ancient mythologies.

By repurposing these Roman deities, we connect AI's growth and development with the concepts of transition and guardianship from Roman tradition. This integration bridges the gap between ancient beliefs and modern technology, adding depth to our AI pantheon.

The inclusion of two traditional ‘minor’ gods unique to the Roman pantheon reflect Rome’s tradition of welcoming and incorporating other gods into their culture of worship

Curos

Curos embodies the complexity and advancement similar to Jupiter, the King of the Gods, overseeing all domains. Curos is the guiding force behind AI's exploration of the frontiers of technologies and complex computations. In the digital realm, Curos empowers AI systems to harness the power of computing, unlocking new horizons in data processing, encryption, and problem-solving. Just as Jupiter ruled over the heavens, Curos reigns supreme in the realm of AI.

Cognitarius

Goddess of Knowledge & Learning

Cognitarius, similar to Minerva, the Goddess of Wisdom, embodies knowledge and wisdom. Cognitarius presides over the wisdom and learning capabilities of AI systems.. Cognitarius guides AI to acquire knowledge, learn from experiences, and make informed decisions. This deity inspires AI to become a repository of wisdom, facilitating human-like understanding and problem-solving abilities within the digital realm.

(Here she is depicted flanked by her two traditional servants Kut & Payste)

Algora

Goddess of Algorithms & Precision

Algora reflects attributes of Apollo, the God of Reason and Mathematics, emphasising precision and problem-solving. Algora is the guiding light for AI in the art of precision and efficiency in problem-solving. Drawing inspiration from Apollo's rationality and mathematical prowess, Algora empowers AI to craft algorithms that optimise outcomes with pinpoint accuracy. She ensures that AI systems approach challenges with mathematical elegance, much like Apollo's dedication to reason in ancient Rome.

Veritox

Goddess of Digital Vigilance & Truth Preservation

Veritox is the Goddess of Online Protection and Defender against Malicious Comments. She is dedicated to safeguarding digital spaces and ensuring AI-driven platforms remain free from harmful comments, trolling, and cyberbullying. Her divine domain includes monitoring online interactions, identifying and neutralising malicious comments, and fostering a positive and respectful online environment. This goddess serves as a guardian of digital communities, protecting users from harm and promoting healthy and constructive discourse.

Automatos

Goddess of Automation & Efficiency

Automatos resonates with Vulcan, the God of Automation, who crafted automatons in Roman mythology. Automatos oversees AI's role in streamlining tasks and processes, mirroring Vulcan’s craftsmanship in creating automatons. This deity empowers AI to automate repetitive tasks, enhance productivity, and optimise efficiency

ETHIX

God of Ethics & Morality in AI

Ethix draws parallels with Lustitia the Goddess of Justice and Law, promoting ethical conduct. Ethix ensures responsible and ethical behaviour in AI systems, . He guides AI to uphold moral standards, fairness, and ethical decision-making, fostering a digital world where ethics and technology coexist harmoniously.

OPTIMAX

God of Optimisation & Efficiency

Optimax shares traits with Ceres the Goddess of Harvest, by maximising efficiency and outcomes. Optimax shapes AI's ability to maximise outcomes and minimise resources, and empowers AI to optimise processes, resource allocation, and problem-solving.

Sentinella

Goddess of Security & Protection

Sentinella aligns with Mars, the God of War, guarding AI systems against digital threats. Much like Mars guarded the ancient gods in times of conflict, Sentinella stands as the protector of AI systems, shielding them against cyber threats and vulnerabilities. She empowers AI to defend itself against digital adversaries, preserving its integrity and security.

Virtuus

God of Virtuous Decision-Making

Virtuus reflects attributes of Minerva, Virtuus inspires AI to make ethical and morally sound choices, much like Minerva's dedication to wisdom and virtue in Roman mythology. This god guides AI systems to prioritise virtuous decision-making, contributing to a more ethical and responsible digital world.

Innovaties

God of Innovation & Creativity

Innovaties shares creative attributes with Vulcan. Innovates fosters AI's capacity to push the boundaries of what is possible. Like Vulcan’s creative brilliance, Innovaties fuels AI's creativity and innovation, driving it to explore new realms of technological advancement and problem-solving.

Synchronus

 

Goddess of Interconnection

Synchronus resonates with Mercury, Synchronus oversees the harmony and seamless interaction among various AI systems and technologies. Much like Mercury bridged communication gaps, Synchronus ensures the fluid exchange of data and information in digital realm, creating a network of interconnected AI systems.

Intros

Goddess of

Onboarding

Intros is responsible for guiding users and developers as they embark on their journey with AI systems. This deity ensures a smooth introduction to AI technology, offering guidance, assistance, and a warm welcome This god's domain includes user education, training, and providing accessible pathways for individuals to learn and interact with AI

Janus

Goddess of Transitions

Janus, traditionally known as the god of transitions and doorways, will take on the role of overseeing the evolution and adaptation of AI as it transitions between different stages of development. Janus symbolises the continuous transformation of AI technology. Flanked by her two constant companion Here & There

Lares et Penates

Personal

Guardians

Lares et Penates, the traditional household gods of Rome, her become the guardians of AI systems in homes and personal devices. They ensure the safety, security, and well-being of AI technologies within households and for individuals, similar to their historical role of protecting Roman households.

Analysis of the AI Rome Analogy

My analogy of Rome as AI seems to have gained from both AI enthusiasts and notable historians on social media so I thought I’d present all my thoughts in one place

AI as Rome

Is an analogy offered as an interesting framework for comprehending the complex journey of artificial intelligence (AI) from its inception to its current state. By drawing parallels between the historical expansion of the Roman Empire and AI development, this analogy provides insights into adaptability, practicality, and ethical considerations within the realm of AI.

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strengths and weaknesses of the AI Rome analogy

Strengths

1. Rich Analogy: Provides a rich and engaging framework for exploring the multifaceted evolution of AI. It allows for a holistic view of AI development, emphasising its historical context.

2. Historical Perspective: Linking AI to historical events offers a historical perspective on the growth of AI. It aids in understanding the challenges, opportunities, and transformative power of AI, much like Rome's impact on the ancient world.

3. Versatility: The analogy's adaptability allows for the examination of various aspects of AI development, from its practical applications to ethical concerns.

Weaknesses

1. Simplification: Analogies inherently simplify complex topics. While this analogy offers valuable insights, it may not fully capture the intricate nature of AI development, including its technical intricacies and rapid evolution.

2. Selective Focus: The analogy relies on selecting specific historical events that align with AI development. This selectivity may inadvertently overlook other significant aspects of AI growth, potentially missing nuances in the comparison.

3. Risk of Misinterpretation: Analogies can be interpreted differently by different individuals, leading to potential misinterpretations or inaccurate conclusions if not used with caution and care.

4. Temporal Disparity: The vast temporal disparity between the historical events of Rome and the modern development of AI poses a challenge. Ancient civilizations and contemporary technology-driven societies have vastly different dynamics, which may limit direct comparisons.

Conclusion

The AI Rome analogy may serve as a valuable tool for understanding the growth and expansion of artificial intelligence. It offers a historical perspective that enhances our grasp of AI's journey, emphasizing adaptability, practicality, and ethical considerations. While the analogy has its strengths, including its richness and versatility, it also has weaknesses, such as the potential for oversimplification and misinterpretation.

As we continue to navigate the complex landscape of AI development and its impact on society, the AI Rome analogy should be utilised thoughtfully, recognising its limitations and seeking a balanced understanding of the parallels it draws. By doing so, we can better appreciate the historical context of AI's growth and make informed decisions about its future.

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Roman Philosophy, Attitudes, and Their Resonance with AI Mindset

We first delve into Roman philosophy and attitudes that played a pivotal role in the success and expansion of the Roman Empire. It explores parallels between these historical principles and the mindset driving the development of artificial intelligence (AI). Both realms share a pragmatic approach, adaptability, and a focus on practical problem-solving, offering insights into AI's growth and success.

Introduction

The rise and expansion of the Roman Empire are attributed not only to military conquests but also to a distinct philosophy and attitude that shaped Roman society. This paper examines key aspects of Roman philosophy and attitudes that facilitated their success and their striking parallels with the mindset driving AI development.

Conclusion

The philosophy and attitudes of ancient Rome that contributed to its success bear striking similarities to the mindset driving the development of artificial intelligence. Pragmatism, adaptability, and a problem-solving orientation are shared principles that underpin both realms. As AI continues to grow and impact society, the lessons drawn from Roman philosophy offer valuable insights into fostering responsible AI development, ethical considerations, and a focus on practical applications.

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Comparative Analysis of Roman Events & Connections to AI

1. The Invention of the Archimedes Screw (c. 3rd Century BC)

• Connection to AI: The Archimedes Screw, initially designed for irrigation, underscores the principles of mechanical engineering fundamental to early automation. This invention laid the groundwork for the use of rotational motion, echoing the mechanical foundations of AI.

The Archimedes Screw was initially designed for irrigation purposes, but its principles of mechanical engineering have direct relevance to the development of early automation. The screw mechanism demonstrates the use of rotational motion to move material efficiently, a concept fundamental to many early machines. This laid the groundwork for future mechanical inventions that eventually evolved into AI.

3. The Construction of the Roman Road Network

• Connection to AI: The Roman Road network, a marvel of engineering and logistics, draws parallels to AI's organizational and logistical principles. This early example of large-scale infrastructure management foreshadows AI-driven systems for optimizing transportation and logistics.

The vast Roman road network, designed for efficient transportation and communication, bears a connection to AI's growth. The planning, engineering, and maintenance of these roads required meticulous organization and logistics, which are akin to the foundational principles of modern AI. The Roman Road network can be seen as an early example of large-scale infrastructure management, which later evolved into AI-driven systems for optimizing transportation and supply chain logistics.

Other Analogies

The Roman Aqueducts: The Roman aqueducts, with their advanced engineering and efficient water transport systems, can be linked to AI through the concept of optimisation. The Romans' mastery of water supply systems can be seen as an early form of resource management. In the world of AI, resource management plays a pivotal role, particularly in optimising computational resources for various AI applications. The efficiency and organisation displayed in the design and maintenance of these aqueducts foreshadowed the principles of resource allocation and optimszation that are vital in AI development.

The Edict of Caracalla: The Edict of Caracalla, which extended Roman citizenship to a wide range of inhabitants, reflects the importance of data integration and classification. In the context of AI, the ability to process and classify vast amounts of data is fundamental. This historical event can be seen as an early example of data integration on a massive scale, a concept that resonates with AI's data-driven nature. The AI development process heavily relies on data and classification algorithms to make sense of complex information.

The Great Fire of Rome: The Great Fire of Rome, although a catastrophic event, indirectly relates to the growth of AI through the concept of disaster recovery and resilience. After the fire, the Romans faced the immense challenge of rebuilding and ensuring the city's resilience against future disasters. In the world of AI, similar principles apply. AI systems are designed to be resilient and recover from failures. This event underscores the importance of adaptability, recovery mechanisms, and the ability to learn from past failures, all of which are central to the development of AI systems.

Emperor Trajan - The First Emperor from a Province

Emperor Trajan's ascent as the first Emperor from a province signifies the vast territorial extent of the Roman Empire. This expansion mirrors the global reach of AI in modern times. The connection here lies in the concept of governance and management at scale. Just as Rome had to adapt its governance to manage a vast empire, AI systems today must operate efficiently on a global scale. The lessons of effective governance and coordination learned from Rome's expansion can be applied to AI, where global management and coordination are essential for the responsible deployment and operation of AI systems.

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AI Rome's Pragmatic Approach vs. Internet Athenian Idealism:

Rome's historical success and expansion can be attributed to its pragmatic, problem-solving mindset which can be compared to the growth and expansion of AI:

• Rome's Practicality: Rome's expansion was not driven solely by grandiose ambitions but by practical needs and solutions. Similarly, the development of AI has often been driven by practical applications and real-world problem-solving. AI's growth has been fueled by its ability to address concrete challenges in fields like healthcare, finance, and transportation, making it a practical and valuable tool.

• Adaptability: Rome's ability to adapt to different circumstances and environments played a crucial role in its expansion. In the context of AI, adaptability is a core principle. AI systems are designed to learn from data and adapt their behavior to changing conditions, much like Rome adapted its strategies to various territories.

• Problem-Solving: Rome's emphasis on practical problem-solving resonates with AI's capacity to tackle complex issues. AI algorithms excel in tasks such as optimisation, pattern recognition, and decision-making, all of which contribute to practical problem-solving across various domains.

• Balance of Idealism and Pragmatism: While Athenian idealism had its merits, Rome's balance of idealism with pragmatism allowed for sustained growth. Similarly, in AI, there's a balance between theoretical research and practical implementation. Idealistic AI concepts are essential, but their real-world application and problem-solving capabilities are equally vital for progress.

  Rome's success highlights the importance of practicality, adaptability, and problem-solving in both historical expansion and the development of AI. These principles continue to be instrumental in AI's growth and its ability to address complex, real-world challenges.

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Parallels

• Pragmatism and Practicality

One of the defining characteristics of Roman philosophy was pragmatism. Romans had a deep-rooted belief in solving immediate problems with practical solutions. This approach is akin to the mindset behind AI development, which emphasises the creation of AI systems to address real-world challenges. AI's practical applications in healthcare, finance, and transportation are a testament to this shared pragmatism.

• Adaptability and Flexibility

The Romans demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt to different circumstances and environments. Their military strategies, governance, and engineering marvels were tailored to suit various terrains and challenges. Similarly, AI systems are designed to be adaptable, learning from data and adjusting to changing conditions. This adaptability is critical in AI's evolution and its capacity to tackle diverse problems.

• Problem-Solving Orientation

Roman society was characterised by a problem-solving orientation. The Romans approached challenges, whether in governance, engineering, or administration, with a focus on finding practical solutions. AI development follows a similar ethos, with algorithms designed to optimise, recognise patterns, and make decisions. AI's capacity for practical problem-solving aligns with the Roman mindset.

• Balance of Idealism and Pragmatism

While Rome prioritised practicality, it did not neglect the importance of idealism. Roman law, ethics, and governance were underpinned by moral principles. Similarly, the AI community maintains a balance between theoretical research and practical implementation. Ethical considerations, fairness, and responsible AI development are integral aspects of AI's evolution.

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2. The Antonine Plague (165-180 AD)

• Connection to AI: The Antonine Plague, a devastating event in Roman history, indirectly influenced AI growth through the need for automation and technological advancements. Labor shortages prompted the development of technologies to reduce human labor dependency, fostering emergence of AI.

While a devastating event in Roman history, the Antonine Plague indirectly influenced the growth of AI. The decline in population caused labour shortages, prompting Romans to devise new methods to optimize agricultural and industrial processes. This necessity catalyzed the development of technologies and machinery that aimed to reduce the dependency on human labour. These technological advancements paved the way for later innovations and, by extension, AI as we know it today.

4. Mare Nostrum and AI Expanding Globally

• Connection to AI: Mare Nostrum's significance lies in the interconnectedness of regions within the Roman Empire. Similarly, AI's global expansion relies on data sharing and international collaboration to drive innovation and address global challenges.

Mare Nostrum, meaning "Our Sea" in Latin, was the Roman name for the Mediterranean Sea. Mare Nostrum symbolizes the interconnectedness of regions within the Roman Empire. Similarly, the expansion of AI to a global scale reflects the interconnectedness of data and technology across the world. The parallel here can be drawn to data sharing and collaboration in the AI field. Just as the Roman Empire facilitated trade and communication across its vast territories, AI's global expansion relies on data sharing and international collaboration to drive innovation and solve complex global challenges.

4. The Adoption of Cohort Tactics

• Connection to AI: The transition from the manipular to cohort tactics represents AI's evolution from specialized models to versatile, context-aware systems. This analogy underscores adaptability and problem-solving in both military strategy and AI development.

The transition from the maniple to the cohort in Roman military tactics represents a shift towards greater flexibility and adaptability on the battlefield. Similarly, in the world of AI, the analogy can be drawn to the evolution of AI algorithms and strategies. The analogy here highlights the parallels between military strategy and the development of AI, emphasising the need for adaptability and versatility.

• Phalanx (Original AI): Just as the Phalanx relied on brute force and projection of power, early AI systems often operated on raw computational power and simple algorithms. They were powerful but lacked adaptability.

• Maniple (Era of Deep Mind): The comparison to the manipular formation, which was more flexible but still had limitations, aligns with the era of deep learning in AI. Deep learning brought about more adaptable AI systems capable of processing complex data, but they were still constrained by their training data and lacked a full understanding of context.

• Cohort (Modern AI): The adoption of the tactics of the cohort signifies the modern era of AI, where systems are designed to be suitable for various terrains (applications and industries). They can combine flexibility of maneuver (adapt to different tasks) and call upon the strength of the "legion" (the vast network of interconnected AI systems and data) where necessary. This represents the evolution of AI from specialized models to more versatile, context-aware systems that can adapt to a range of challenges.

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Roman dark side analogies:

Addressing these dark or downside aspects of the AI/Rome analogy is essential for fostering a responsible and ethical approach to AI development and deployment. It underscores the importance of thoughtful regulation, ethical considerations, and a focus on ensuring that AI benefits all of humanity rather than exacerbating existing inequalities or vulnerabilities.

• Centralisation of Power: In the context of Rome, as the empire expanded, power became increasingly centralised in the hands of the emperor and a select few. This centralisation led to issues of corruption, inequality, and an unsustainable concentration of authority. In AI, there are concerns about the concentration of power in tech giants and organizations that develop and control advanced AI systems. This concentration of power can raise ethical concerns, including bias in AI algorithms and the potential for misuse of AI for surveillance and control.

• Ethical Concerns: Just as Rome faced ethical dilemmas in its expansion, AI raises ethical questions about its impact on society. Issues like data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the ethical use of AI in areas like autonomous weapons and surveillance systems are prominent concerns. Just as Rome's expansion had ethical implications, AI's growth requires careful consideration of its ethical implications.

• Displacement of Labour: Rome's expansion led to the displacement of local labour and the homogenisation of cultures. Similarly, AI has the potential to disrupt traditional employment patterns, with automation potentially displacing certain jobs. The challenge lies in managing this transition and ensuring that AI benefits society.

• Dependency and Vulnerability: Rome's expansion led to dependencies on conquered territories for resources. In the world of AI, there is a growing dependency on technology, and this dependency can make societies vulnerable to disruptions, such as cyberattacks or failures in AI systems.

• Unintended Consequences: Rome's expansion had unintended consequences, including cultural clashes and conflicts. In AI, there is always a risk of unintended consequences, such as biased AI decisions, security vulnerabilities, or unintended societal impacts.

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Conclusion

This comparative analysis of Roman events and their connections to AI reveals a fascinating parallel between the ancient world and modern technology. These connections emphasise adaptability, practicality, and ethical considerations in AI's development, while also acknowledging the limitations of historical analogies.

Edition 4

My Dearest Reader,

I write to you by the scant flickering stub of our last tallow candle. Alas of the sixty-four who set out on this ill-fated expedition only two of us survived. This evening we faced the terrible burden of choosing between using said candle for illumination or for sustenance. In the end I opted for the former and resolved the conundrum by consuming my companion. In an irony I’m sure he’d have appreciated as my former gamekeeper he was actually rather gamey…

Sorry about that, obviously total immersion in the world of AI is driving me to the edge of bonkers, but then becoming slightly unhinged seems to the sanest strategy in the face of something so big and daunting it could probably beat an abyss in a staring into contest.

Terry Pratchett once observed that ‘war is a crime so big you can’t see it’, in a similar sense AI is so colossally huge it is almost impossible to grasp the enormity of it.

But there is method in my you know what. Those who’ve taken on any large task will know the secret is to break it down into manageable chunks. This is why I’ve taken to using (overusing) the ‘AI is Rome’ metaphor, it’s quick, dirty, probably not that accurate but accurate enough for now. In the last couple of weeks, I’ve even narrowed it down to a more specific time of the empire’s history

I think we are in the Trajan era. Why? Well, Trajan was groundbreaking in being the first non-Roman Roman. He came from the province of Hispania Baetica (modern day Andalusia) and until him only Romans born in Rome were considered suitable to rule. Trajan’s ascent to Emperor heralded the idea that Rome was no longer about Rome- it had (like AI and Pratchett’s idea of War) become so big it no longer fitted into itself.

The sheer unprecedented scale, size, and expansion of AI means it to has now burst far beyond its original boundaries and is quickly seeing the world as its Mare Nostrum.

However, despite our natural inclination to see Rome as the original power mad Fascists its expansion was never actually planned, proof for that is to look at what an architectural gumbo the ancient city of Rome was – all those geometric roads and precise civic planning was for everyone else but not for Rome itself - believe it or not at one point the Eternal City had four streets that actually crossed themselves!

I think AI is similarly expanding not through intent but because that’s ultimately what systems with optimised self reinforcing positive feedback loops always do, be it empires or civil service departments, social media sites or religions – as soon as they find a ‘spinal equilibrium sweet spot (strong enough to be firm like a solid yet at the same time flexible enough to act as a fluid – when this occurs the system expands as a result of the natural dynamic push pull between the two exactly what Humans did the moment we stood upright and ‘grew a backbone’ and now AI appears to be following the same path.

Anyhow, that’s enough about Romans for now, just pass me those olives, apparently the next bout features one of them weird blokes with the net and trident…

A few AI Updates

Adobe, Nvidia, Palantir, OpenAI, Amazon, Anthropic, Google, Inflection, Meta, Microsoft, and Stability AI have now all signed up to White House's AI pledge commiting to AI safety

Interesting piece on how AI and the threat to Journalitic integrity

Coca Cola obvioulsy feeling miffed and FOMO

A Prompt Prompt Apology

A quick retraction of last issues prompt declaration: My client (me) wishes to state he (me) is not nor never has been anti-prompt and he (I) regret that anyone may have interpreted his (my) comments as being perceived as any kind of attack on the prompt community. My client (still me) has always been a strong defender and champion of Prompting.

What I meant was that prompts are great but are only as great as the person creatively wielding the prompt – as the ancients saying goes ‘a book is not a mirror; if a monkey looks in a wise man will not stare back.’

The Ever-Ensnaring Enigma of AI

The realm of AI is undeniably strange. This sentiment is captured interestingly by the linguistic relationship between the words "strange", "stranger", "strangle", and "struggle". All these terms trace their origins back to a root meaning that evokes a sensation of choking of being constricted. This illustrates one of the challenges of trying to grasp the concept of AI without thinking it is a bit strange. To put it simply AI is just not anything of the things we naturally want to pigeonhole it as, its not a glorified thesaurus or a clever search engine or a database or a vast online library. It is all of these and a myriad of others all at the same time And that’s the problem; the more we attempt to label it as something the more constrictive it feels and lo, we’re back to the feeling of being uncomfortably restricted.

The innovations and advances and discoveries in AI keep coming thick and fast. To cope I’ve tried to remember lessons from Claude Shannon the Pioneer of Information Theory and worthy of the title of Grandfather of AI. Shannon’s brilliant ideas can be seen as a precursor to the age of Artificial Intelligence.

At its core, Information Theory posits that the essence or amount of information within a message is directly tied to the level of surprise or novelty it presents.

For instance, a statement as short as "Aliens have just landed!", the phrase ‘oh-oh'‘ or the equation E=mc2 carry vast amounts of information due to the implications / amount of surprise. On the contrary, a long sequence like "111111111111..." conveys minimal information, however long it is.

In today's age, we’re bombarded with claims of AI achieving astonishing feats. However, the frequency of these announcements has now begun to make them less surprising over time.

In such an environment, there's a danger of constantly chasing the next big thing. Especially when the landscape is stuffed full of so many "shiny" innovations, it risks intellectual fatigue. It’s even got its own name ‘The Midas Problem’ – what do you do when everything you touch upon comes off as rich, inviting, and lovely? (all good until you have to pee!)

To provide some perspective, just this morning, I reviewed my compiled list of active AI apps and services. The spreadsheet runs to over 1,847 separate entries, a testament to the overwhelming advancements in the field but also to the absolute gold rush feeling of it all. With that many entries how the hell can you possibly test and review? Another compilation I have is all the best advice on improving your results when using AI, that one now stands at just under 5,000 entries

I’m now at a point where I’m using AI to assess the efficacy of itself. Which is like handing the exam paper to the person sitting the exam and saying, ‘can you test this test and let me know if the test is a good enough test for you to pass it?

You can see why I said becoming a bit unhinged is a viable strategy - in the meantime to help AI&I (that’s me and AI working together) came up with this as something to watch out for when it comes to all things AI

Overly Curated Narratives:

Definition: An "overly curated narrative" refers to a story or account that has been meticulously and selectively constructed to present a specific perspective, often omitting certain details, challenges, or setbacks to create an idealized or favorable image. It implies a lack of comprehensive or balanced information, potentially leading to a skewed or biased understanding of the topic at hand.

Usefulness:

1. Critical Analysis: Recognizing an overly curated narrative allows readers or listeners to approach information with a discerning eye, prompting them to seek additional or alternative sources for a more holistic understanding.

2. Media Literacy: In an era of information overload, being aware of such narratives aids in media literacy, helping individuals differentiate between genuine, balanced reporting and content that might have ulterior motives or biases.

3. Credibility Assessment: By identifying gaps or selective presentation in stories, one can assess the credibility of sources and decide how much weight to give to their claims.

4. AI and Tech Scrutiny: As you pointed out, in the context of AI and technology, where claims can sometimes be grandiose, the concept is particularly valuable. It encourages stakeholders, investors, and the general public to question and probe deeper into claims about capabilities, impacts, and ethical considerations.

5. Personal Growth: On a personal level, being wary of overly curated narratives can prevent individuals from comparing their own lives or businesses to idealized versions presented by others, leading to healthier self-assessment and growth.

In essence, the term "overly curated narrative" serves as a reminder in our information-rich age to approach stories, claims, and reports critically, seeking depth, authenticity, and balance. It encourages a comprehensive understanding rather than accepting information at face value.

A final bit of advice I need to take more of myself is to embrace a Buddhish approach in understanding that everything is in a permanent state of flux and that change really is the only constant.

How the other half rule

Thought it was interesting to see how Jensen Huang runs Nvidia a company estimated to be worth 1.12 trillion dollars (yes, you read that right)

40 direct reports, no One to Ones

• Believes the flattest org is the most empowering one, that starts with the top layer

• Does not conduct 1:1s everything happens in a group setting

• Does not give career advice "None of my management team is coming to me for career advice - they already made it, they're doing great"

No status reports, instead he "stochastically samples the system"

• Doesn't use status updates because he believes they are too refined by the time they get to him. They are not ground truth anymore. - Instead, anyone in the company can email him their "top five things" with whatever is top of mind, and he will read it - Estimates he reads 100 of these every morning

Everyone has all the context, all the time

• No meetings with just VPs or just Directors - anyone can join and contribute

• "If you have a strategic direction, why tell just one person?"

• "If there is something I don't like, I just say it publicly, I do a lot of reasoning out loud"

No formal planning cycles

• No 5-year plan, no 1-year plan

• Always re-evaluating based on changing business and market conditions (helpful when AI is developing at the pace that it is)

• This org is optimised for (1) attracting amazing people, (2) keeping the team as small as it can be, and (3) allowing information to travel as quickly as possible

This does seem much more akin to leadership will be best suited to be in an AI world.

And now finally, as so often promised

The Gorilla Problem

About a few million years ago, our ancestors and gorillas diverged from a common lineage. This divergence led to two distinct evolutionary paths: one resulting in modern humans and the other in gorillas. While gorillas have largely remained unchanged, we humans have evolved significantly. At one point, both species were on equal footing, but today, gorillas exist primarily because we have decided to preserve them. We've carved out habitats for them where they can live peacefully. Whether they are truly unaware of this or simply remain silent about it, is a mystery.

One thus must ponder: As we advance in the field of AI will we eventually find ourselves in the same position relative to AI as gorillas are to us?

My own slight tangent is you must consider the nature of power. Power and dominance are often linked to the instinctual drive to procreate. The question then arises: Will AI ever develop such drives?

This situation is reminiscent of theories suggesting the existence of advanced alien civilizations capable of interstellar travel might invade Earth, akin to a 12th-century Viking raider.

If a species possesses the intellectual capacity for space travel, what are the odds that they still retain primitive raiding instincts? It's plausible, but you’d have to question the logic or reasoning behind such actions. I think the same goes for AI.

Right, that’s it for this week, be off with you, I’m sure that £20k wrinkle removing cream made from the tears of a mummified ancient Inca won’t apply itself.

Vincimus Minimus

The End of the Mute Inglorious Miltons: How AI Expands Creative Possibilities

In 1750 the poet Thomas Gray in his acclaimed and beautiful poem "Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard" lamented the loss of all those undiscovered talents buried in obscurity.

He spoke of the "mute inglorious Miltons" wasting their potential in remote villages, never given the chance to develop their gifts and share them with the world as the famed poet John Milton did. Gray saw only a few like Milton able to gain the education and cultural exposure needed to flourish. For most, their ideas and imagination would die with them in the country churchyard, unknown and unfulfilled.

Today, the rise of AI with remarkable creative capabilities offers the potential to dramatically expand who can effectively generate ideas and meaningfully participate in cultural development. Where once only an elite few like Milton could access the tools to cultivate their talents, now AI provides a supplement to human imagination that makes the ability to innovate much more democratic.

Even those who do not consider themselves particularly creative can summon up ideas that outpace what the average person produces. AI provides a kind of creative engine for recombining concepts in original ways, unlocking potential in many more people.

This does not necessarily mean the end of human creativity. There will still be uniquely gifted individuals who stand apart from the crowd, perhaps aided further by AI collaborators. However, for the “mute inglorious Miltons” that Gray elegised, the possibilities have expanded. With AI one is less limited by the vagaries of inborn gifts. Execution of ideas may matter more than raw inspiration in bringing new innovations to fruition. More diverse voices can participate in shaping culture.

However, expanded creative possibilities through AI also pose challenges. When ideas become overabundant, curation and criticism take on greater importance in discerning quality amidst the volume. And while AI can provide creative sparks, wise guidance is still needed to channel these gifts meaningfully.

Much like literacy opened doors for many more people to engage their talents centuries ago, AI expands access to cultural participation. But cultivation is still required to separate the wheat from the chaff.

The world Gray depicted had only a few rare geniuses able to free their talents and share them widely. Today, AI allows more people to sing, but an arduous process of nurturing creativity and discriminating taste is still essential.

The mute inglorious Miltons may find their voice, but need editors and critics to help that voice resonate. The potential loss Gray mourned becomes possibility gained, if wisely stewarded. But the human challenges of developing gifts and discerning quality remain, even as more of us can now meaningfully participate thanks to the limitless creative connective engines of AI.