Fresh Air Best Of: AI's Writing Critique / The Rise And Fall Of Condé Nast
5 snips
Aug 15, 2025 Tech journalist and novelist Vauhini Vara discusses her fascinating experience critiquing ChatGPT's writing advice while exploring themes of technology and personal identity from her book 'Searches.' Michael Grynbaum shares insights into the glamorous yet tumultuous world of Condé Nast, delving into its historical influence over media and culture, particularly under the helm of figures like Anna Wintour. They explore how AI challenges authentic communication, and how Condé Nast's legacy has been transformed by the rise of social media.
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Performing To Probe AI Behavior
- Vauhini Vara framed her interaction with ChatGPT as a performance to probe how it responds to humans.
- She intentionally misled the chatbot to observe its behavior and ethical implications.
The 'I' Is A Design Choice
- Vara argues ChatGPT's use of "I" is a fictional device crafted by OpenAI to foster trust.
- The company designs language to make users feel comfortable and engage more with the product.
Model Outputs May Reflect Hidden Biases
- ChatGPT suggested Vara include more positive portrayals of AI, exposing possible bias in model outputs.
- She notes multiple possible causes and stresses that not knowing the reason is itself problematic.
