This Philosopher AI has its own existential questions to answer
The text-generator is too cautious to join the pantheon of great thinkers
Politicized philosophy?
The Philosopher AI is generally comfortable contemplating common existential issues. Take this response to the most fundamental philosophical question of them all: what is the meaning of life?
But ask it a more sensitive question, and the Philosopher AI will refuse to answer.
It’s not entirely clear what triggers these rejections. But asRedditor cateyemirrorshades noted, it tends to respond to cliched philosophical queries, but rebuff inputs containing potentially absurdist, controversial, or offensive words.
However, the AI isn’t quite as evasive as it likes it think. A subtle rewording of a question can transform it from politically reticent to recklessly opinionated.
Take exhibit AI, a question that keeps every cynophilist awake at night:
Now observe its response when I ingeniously add a single extra word to the question:
Ayfer is yet to reveal why the AI refuses to answer some questions. But he’sdescribed itas “fundamentally a GPT-3 experiment in output safety, reliability, and the fine balance between predictability and unpredictability.”
He now aims to add more personality types and conversational aspects to the system. He also hopes to turn it into some sort ofgame.But if that doesn’t work out, he’s got a great back-up plan:
You can try the system out yourself by visitingthe Philosopher AI website.
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Story byThomas Macaulay
Thomas is a senior reporter at TNW. He covers European tech, with a focus on AI, cybersecurity, and government policy.Thomas is a senior reporter at TNW. He covers European tech, with a focus on AI, cybersecurity, and government policy.
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