Sorry Ted Chiang
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Recently, an article in The New Yorker sparked widespread discussion. Written by renowned science fiction author Ted Chiang, the piece was titled "Why A.I. Isn't Going to Make Art." Ted argues that despite AI's continuous progress in artistic creation, the complex choices involved in artistic creation are a crucial reason why it cannot replace human creativity.
I agree with many points in the article, such as:
- Although AI can generate beautiful images or coherent text, it lacks communicative intent, which is a fundamental aspect of language and art.
- Using AI for artistic creation is like using a forklift in a gym - you might achieve the goal, but it won't develop your artistic skills.
- Ted worries that AI is so efficient at producing content that it will diminish the importance of human-created works. Many people might choose the more efficient method, neglecting and reducing the interpretation of creative intent, which is a crucial aspect of contemporary artworks.
However, I disagree with his constant emphasis on originality in human artistic creation. If you study art history or literary history, you'll find that most artists aren't that original. Truly original artists later become influential figures who dominate their fields.
