AI is Forming Opinions on All of Us
Should we mind?
“Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.”
—Unknown (often misattributed to Dr. Seuss)
Conventional wisdom says not to worry about what others think of you. But what if 'others' includes AI? Should we worry that ChatGPT is forming opinions on all of us?
For instance, when I asked ChatGPT, “Who is John Mayo-Smith?,” what came back was this bio:
It begins with “John Mayo-Smith is a notable figure associated with various roles and contributions in technology and digital innovation.”
What’s notable is the word ‘notable.’ ChatGPT seems to think I’m somewhat important—or maybe it’s just polite flattery. Either way, it's an opinion that sways the reader.
Next, are a few 'key highlights,' which appear to be a collection of opinions about the importance of some things I’ve done.
Artificial Intelligence is also Artificial Influence.
The more AIs share opinions about people, the more they behave like influencers. It’s not hard to imagine how they might start to influence employment opportunities and other prospects. Which begs the question: how do we influence them back?
Does ChatGPT mind what we say? Does it matter?