

AI is more marketing hype than real capabilities, new book suggests
May 14, 2025
Emily Bender is a linguist from the University of Washington known for coining the term 'stochastic parrots,' while Alex Hanna, previously an AI ethicist at Google, now directs research at the Distributed AI Institute. They dissect the inflated expectations surrounding AI, urging a critical reassessment of its true capabilities. From the pitfalls of viewing AI as a creative force to its environmental impacts, they stress the need for responsible tech development that prioritizes real community benefits and addresses pressing societal issues.
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Misconception of AI Democratizing Art
- AI hype often misrepresents the democratization of art and creativity.
- People focus on being identified as creators rather than mastering the craft itself.
Financial Motives Drive AI Hype
- AI hype is fueled by motivated reasoning and massive financial investments.
- Stakeholders defend AI promises to protect investments and reputation.
The Myth of Artificial General Intelligence
- Artificial general intelligence lacks a clear, consistent definition.
- It's a vague goal that fosters magical thinking about AI capabilities.