An international writing organization recently ignited a firestorm by appearing to endorse the use of AI in the creative process, leading to notable resignations and widespread concern among authors.
The recent uproar began when the organization behind an annual writing challenge issued a statement that seemed to support AI’s role in writing. Specifically, it said it neither condemns nor endorses any writing approach, including AI. The controversy deepened when the statement added that condemning AI could have ‘classist and ableist undertones,’ questioning issues of privilege in the discourse around AI.
This left many perplexed. Has AI suddenly become a working-class hero? Or is this simply a tactical move by management to use social justice rhetoric to defend a technology accused of exploiting artists and writers by training on their work without compensation? The backlash was swift and severe. Four board members resigned in protest, including bestselling author Maureen Johnson, who warned writers that their work on the platform would likely be used to train AI.
Attempting damage control, the organization later clarified that its original statement was poorly worded and that it does not believe concerns about AI are inherently classist or ableist. Despite this, skepticism and caution continue to pervade the writing community regarding both the organization and AI.
It is a fair concern. While AI holds the potential to enhance human creativity and societal benefits, the direction in which it is currently being developed raises alarm. Many fear it is in the hands of profit-driven technocrats. This uncertainty paints an unsettling picture of the future, akin to a ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ book where the narrative is veering towards dystopia.
The debate over AI’s place in the creative world is far from over. As writers grapple with these developments, the line between innovation and exploitation remains contentious.
Source: Theguardian