Sabine Zetteler remains unconvinced about the merits of utilizing AI technology.
“Recently, I came across a compelling phrase that resonated deeply: ‘Why would I bother to read something someone couldn’t be bothered to write?’ This statement carries significant weight and perfectly reflects my perspective.”
Ms. Zetteler operates a communications agency in London, employing approximately 10 staff members, a mix of full-time and part-time personnel.
“What is the purpose of distributing content we did not create, perusing a newspaper authored by algorithms, enjoying a song produced by artificial intelligence, or increasing my profits by terminating the employment of my administrator with four children? Where is the joy, love, or aspirational improvement for me as a founder in any of this?” “It holds no significance for me,” she states.
Ms. Zetteler stands out as one of the individuals pushing back against the encroachment of artificial intelligence, a movement that gained significant momentum following the introduction of ChatGPT in late 2022.
Since then, the service and its numerous competitors have surged in popularity. According to data from software firm Semrush, ChatGPT attracts more than five billion visits each month.
Training AI systems such as ChatGPT demands significant energy resources, and maintaining their operation post-training consumes considerable energy.
A report from Goldman Sachs has highlighted the substantial energy consumption associated with AI technologies, revealing that a single query made through ChatGPT consumes nearly ten times the electricity of a standard Google search query.
Joanne Withers has emerged as a notable figure in her field, drawing attention for her contributions and insights. Her work continues to resonate with audiences, highlighting her influence and expertise.
Such a situation leaves specific individuals feeling uneasy.
Florence Archery, the proprietor of Yoga Retreats & More, cites environmental concerns as a key factor in her decision to avoid artificial intelligence.
“My first impression was that AI lacks soul and contradicts the essence of my business, which centers on human connection,” states London-based entrepreneur Archery.
Nevertheless, it became evident that the environmental consequences were severe due to the substantial energy consumption necessary for operating the data centers. Many individuals lack awareness of this issue.
Ms. Zetteler acknowledges AI’s potential to contribute positively to society yet expresses apprehension regarding its broader implications for the community at large.
Many express satisfaction with AI technology’s existence, particularly its potential to assist blind individuals by translating articles and providing other significant benefits. However, it will not provide us with long-term advantages.
Is there concern that this situation could impact her business, particularly if competing firms are leveraging AI technology?
“To cut costs, opting for EasyJet flights for our agency’s trip to Milan could be more economical than taking the train.” If that is the standard for success, my profit margins may not appear impressive. However, what if we redefine success by considering our contributions to society and sleep quality?
Sierra Hansen, a Seattle resident employed in public affairs, has taken a firm stance against using AI. She expresses concern that the integration of AI is negatively impacting our problem-solving capabilities.
“The human brain plays a crucial role in organizing our daily lives, rather than relying on AI Copilot to dictate how we should manage our schedules.” As humans, it is our responsibility to engage in critical thinking. Relying on ChatGPT for simple tasks may hinder our ability to solve problems independently. The system is taking on the cognitive load for users. “When it comes to enjoying music, I find no necessity for AI to craft the ideal punk rock album on my behalf.”
However, not all individuals have the option to disengage from AI.
Jackie Adams, a digital marketing professional, initially opposed the use of AI due to environmental concerns and a belief that its adoption reflected a lack of effort.
Concerns have been raised regarding the substantial energy requirements of data centers and the extensive land they occupy, prompting unease among observers. “I didn’t understand its necessity,” she remarks.
Approximately a year ago, three of her colleagues at the marketing firm began integrating AI into their workflows, utilizing it for tasks like copywriting and generating ideas.
Six months prior, Ms. Adams was compelled to pursue them after receiving instructions to reduce her budget.
“At that point, it was beyond my control,” she states. She believes that persisting in her resistance could harm her career.
“After reviewing job descriptions emphasizing the need for AI experience, I began engaging with it more extensively.” It has become clear that failing to integrate this into my work practices could result in being left behind.
She now asserts that she no longer perceives the use of AI as a sign of laziness.
“It has the potential to enhance my work and improve various aspects,” she noted, mentioning that she employs it to refine her copywriting and edit photographs.
According to James Brusseau, a philosophy professor at Pace University in New York who focuses on AI ethics, the opportunity to opt out of AI has already passed.
Understanding the rationale behind a decision necessitates human involvement. “If we disregard that, we will likely turn to AI,” he states.
“Human judges will preside over criminal cases, while human doctors will determine eligibility for organ transplants.” “However, weather forecasting will soon be a thing of the past, along with anesthesiology,” states Prof. Brusseau.
Ms. Adam has embraced the use of AI in her workplace; however, she remains troubled by the increasing impact of artificial intelligence.
In today’s digital landscape, a simple Google search often presents users with an AI-generated overview, and many emails now come equipped with a topline summary. This shift has led to a growing sentiment that individuals are losing control over the information they consume. What steps can I take to deactivate all of that? The situation is escalating rapidly.