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TED Tech

Can AI master the art of humor? | Bob Mankoff

Feb 14, 2025
Bob Mankoff, longtime cartoon editor for The New Yorker, dives into the intriguing world of AI and humor. He questions if machines can grasp comedy's nuances or if it's strictly a human domain. Mankoff highlights how cartoons reflect societal trends and the evolution of humor alongside AI. He discusses the challenges AI faces compared to human creativity and underscores the emotional depth required for genuine humor. While AI can assist, it cannot replicate the rich tapestry of human experience that defines true comedy.
13:40

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Bob Mankoff argues that while AI is improving in understanding humor, it cannot replicate the depth of human experiences that create it.
  • The podcast discusses the evolution of AI in creative tasks, with a focus on its role in enhancing cartoon caption contests through data analysis.

Deep dives

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