It’s Uncertain Times
Uncertainty isn’t always bad, but it’s for sure a bit disquieting seeing this new technology burst onto the scene and continue to develop in a way that is encroaching on what was previously our previously exclusive space. Gone, unfortunately, are the days where we thought that writing and the arts were among the most job-secure against AI development.
Combine that with companies flagrantly getting away with as much as they can with this new technology, regardless of the ethical implications or the cost to the people, and it can be very easy to lose hope. That being said though, these are the times we’re in and we’ll have to somehow come to terms with it.
Looking for Inspiration Elsewhere
At a time where writing as a profession isn’t exactly stable, it can be comforting to see instances of it being used ethically in large organizations. There are examples to set, models to look to. Setting a foundation for us to lean on (in an inspiration kind of way at least) is Ikea!
More specifically, Ingka Group, the largest IKEA retailer has a list of commitments it’s making for the ethical and responsible use of AI.
Looking for Inspiration Here
There are also other voices. Look to previous examples of incorporating AI into your process like Vauhini Vara, a Pulitzer Prize Finalist, who did not shed her identity as an accomplished writer in working with ChatGPT for a piece. For those who don’t want to touch AI, look to smaller publication spaces like University Presses, who still value the human element and aren’t driven by market forces. There are a lot of opportunities still, and I do believe that the human element will always be important to a big enough audience.