Join Erin McKean, founder of Wordnik and Google open source enthusiast, as she delves into the evolving landscape of dictionaries amid AI's rise. Explore whether AI can truly replace lexicographers and uncover the environmental costs of training these systems. Erin also shares her journey from fashion blogging to lexicography, with insights on the significance of pockets in dresses and her favorite literary inspirations. This discussion beautifully weaves personal anecdotes with the future of language processing and community engagement.
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insights INSIGHT
AI Mimics Language Without Understanding
AI models imitate language using statistical patterns but lack true understanding of context and meaning.
Lexicography requires nuanced human insight that current AI cannot reliably replicate.
insights INSIGHT
Text Licensing Threatens Linguistic Research
Licensing texts for AI training threatens access to essential data for lexicographers and computational linguists.
Without affordable access to text, scientific progress in these fields could stall.
insights INSIGHT
AI Text Blurs Linguistic Data
It's difficult to distinguish text created by AI language models from human-written text online.
This blurs data quality and complicates linguistic analyses for lexicographers.
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The Steerswoman series, written by Rosemary Kirstein, is a fantasy series that blends elements of scientific realism and historical fiction. The stories follow the adventures of a steerswoman, a female cartographer and surveyor in a medieval-like world. The series is known for its detailed world-building, its focus on scientific observation and problem-solving, and its exploration of themes of knowledge, discovery, and the nature of reality. The Steerswoman's approach to problem-solving is grounded in observation and logical deduction, offering a unique perspective on the fantasy genre. The series has gained a following among readers who appreciate its blend of fantasy and realism, its strong female protagonist, and its intellectual depth.
AI Snake Oil
What Artificial Intelligence Can Do, What It Can’t, and How to Tell the Difference
Sayash Kapoor
Arvind Narayanan
AI Snake Oil cuts through the confusion surrounding AI by explaining how it works, where it might be useful or harmful, and when companies are using AI hype to sell ineffective products. The book acknowledges the potential of some AI, like ChatGPT, while uncovering rampant misleading claims and describing serious harms in areas such as education, medicine, hiring, banking, insurance, and criminal justice. It explains the differences between types of AI, why organizations fall for AI snake oil, and warns of the dangers of unaccountable big tech companies controlling AI.
This is the Book
This is the Book
Why Don't You?
Diana Vreeland
This is the Book is a collection of writings by Diana Vreeland, a legendary fashion editor known for her eccentric style and innovative approach to fashion journalism. The book features her iconic "Why Don't You?" column from Harper's Bazaar, filled with whimsical and often outrageous suggestions. Vreeland's unique voice and perspective offer a glimpse into the world of high fashion and her creative process. The book is a celebration of individuality and a testament to Vreeland's enduring influence on the fashion industry. It's a must-read for anyone interested in fashion, design, or simply the art of living life unconventionally.
Samuel Johnson and the life of writing
Paul Fussell
Paul Fussell's "Samuel Johnson and the Life of Writing" offers a profound exploration of the life and work of the influential 18th-century writer Samuel Johnson. Fussell delves into Johnson's prolific output, examining his various writings, including his famous dictionary. The book explores Johnson's personal struggles and his dedication to self-improvement, revealing the complexities of his character. Fussell's analysis sheds light on Johnson's approach to writing and his enduring legacy. The book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the life and works of Samuel Johnson or the history of English literature.
The secret lives of dresses
Erin McKean
1074. Is AI good enough to replace lexicographers? Wordnik founder Erin McKean shares what works, what doesn’t, and why the future of dictionaries is far from settled.
Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing 
