Is AI Really All That Bad?
This Just In: Here comes a potentially controversial opinion.
Ok, yes, AI is bad. But, also, it may not be universally bad. Let me explain.
There’s a distinction that needs to be made between generative AI and pattern recognition or machine learning or whatever else you want to call it. Everything is being branded AI, regardless of how it actually works, because, like it or not, AI courts financial investment right now.
“AI” is being slapped on practically every business tool right now. I’ve been evaluating phone and productivity suites and every single one touts its AI capabilities. They all have intent and keyword detection, tone recognition and correction, audio transcription with summaries, and real text search/deep research capabilities. Frankly, these boring AI tools are all very helpful.
I use the term “boring” because they aren’t flashy — these tools aren’t generating (pun intended) countless takes online or endless news coverage. Boring AI tools simply enhance existing workflows, and people should start to get comfortable with them.
Generative AI, on the other hand, has no place in the creative worlds it means to replace — writing, art, music, video...
Whenever I see takes online, it’s avoid all AI — which, honestly, I don’t think is possible any longer. Plus, it might start to leave you behind as the technology continues to get baked into everything.
According to a recent AP poll, 60% of all adults use AI to find information. That percentage jumps to 74% when looking at people under 30. When looking specifically at work tasks, 52% of people under 30 use AI. With that kind of adoption already, AI is not going anywhere.
I get the moral fight against Generative AI, and I stand with it. However, I also see the practicality of boring AI tools. The tools are here, so you might as well learn how they can benefit your existing workflows.
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