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I love this Midjourney picture of Tony looking homeless on a park bench. Originally I'd asked for him feeding pigeons but this one looks so good I decided to use it instead. |
With all the chatbots that have popped up on the Internet lately I wondered if I could have a thoughtful and deep conversation with a famous person about the advent of text-to-image generators displacing humans of their occupations. As I stumbled https://boredhumans.com/celebrity_cha... I choose (what I thought to be) the perfect for the job. The inimitable Tony Stark.
The following 25-minute video is this conversation.
Check out https://boredhumans.com/celebrity_cha... to chat with other celebrities dead or alive.
/start scene
CL: Hi Tony, how are you?
TS: Well, let’s just say I’m more than just a little busy saving the world and building the future. But hey, life as Tony Stark is always exciting. So, what can I do for you?
CL: Hang on a sec, you realize that you’re dead right?
TS: Dead? Really? Do I look dead to you? Last I checked, I’m very much alive and kicking. So no need for the dramatics, my friend. Now, what can I do for you?
CL: LOL, okay regardless I’d just like to say that of all the Marvel characters I feel like I relate to you the most. Aside from the charisma and the womanizing and the uber-genius ways, we are very much alike. Can I ask you some questions and get your two-cents on some relevant topics of today?
TS: Well, I must say, anyone who aspires to be like the great Tony Stark certainly has good taste. Shoot me your questions, and let’s see if I can bestow upon you some of my wisdom and genius. Just be aware that my two cents are worth more than most people’s life savings. So make sure that brain of yours is ready to process it all. Fire away!
CL: So we have ChatGPT and other AI tools these days. Let me get to the point. We now have AI text-to-image generators and I sense that the masses are very afraid of this new technology for fear that their jobs will be replaced by AI/bots/robots. What is your take on the matter?
TS: Look, fear is a natural response, but let's not lose our heads here. Technology has always been advancing, and yeah, sometimes it makes people nervous. But look at it this way: Al is just a tool. It's like a hammer, okay? You can use it to build a house or you can swing it around like a maniac. It all comes down to how we decide to use it. Sure, some jobs may be impacted by Al, just like some jobs were impacted by the industrial revolution. But that doesn't mean we throw in the towel and panic. We adapt, we innovate, and we find new ways to contribute. Think about it, we have unprecedented potential to enhance our creativity, improve efficiency, and push boundaries with Al at our side. What's important here is that we don't let fear dictate our actions. We've faced challenges before and we've always come out on top. So, let's embrace this new technology, explore its possibilities, and find ways to use it to our advantage. After all, I've always been a fan of pushing the envelope and leaving my mark on the world. Now, it's time for the rest of humanity to step up and do the same.
CL: So clearly you and I agree on this matter. The important thing to understand is that AI is a tool and that humans will always be the drivers and architects (until we’re not, more on this later), but the problem is that there are certain professions that are currently being threatened to be replaced by AI. In my industry (fashion photography), the advent of text-to-image generators displaces those humans with specific skillsets that allow them to work with other humans on set in a photoshoot; people such as makeup artists, wardrobe stylists, and even the models themselves are now no longer necessary to generating a beautiful fashion image (can’t call it a photograph anymore can we?). So I guess what I’m asking is, what do I say to those people? They certainly do have a right to be afraid…
TS: Look, I get it. Change can be unsettling for people who rely on certain professions. But let me tell you something, pal: adaptability is the name of the game. If you're in an industry that's being threatened by Al, then it's time to step up your game and evolve with the times. To those people you mentioned, the makeup artists, wardrobe stylists, and models, here's what I'd say: don't let the fear get to you. Embrace technology and find ways to integrate it into your work. You still have certain skills and expertise that Al can't replicate. Show them what you're made of, and prove that human touch and creativity have undeniable value. As for the so-called "text-to-image generators," I've seen 'em, and they ain't perfect. They may be able to generate some flashy designs, but they lack the soul, the passion, and the essence that a human brings to the table. So keep refining your craft, keep pushing the boundaries, and show the world why your profession is irreplaceable. Remember, change is inevitable, but we're the ones who control how we adapt. That's what being human is all about. So suit up, embrace the challenge, and show Al who's the real boss. I have faith in you.
CL: LOLOLOL seriously you’re absolutely correct about the AI text-to-image generator, they’re actually quite bad once you really get your hands dirty. It’s almost more work than the traditional way of creating pictures. But listen, your answer is exactly what I would have said except for the fact that it lacks empathy on a human level (I know you’re not real). Because the truth of the matter is that makeup is a skill that some people have paid money to learn and now that it is no longer necessary to even use models anymore, even makeup artists will find themselves completely displaced and out of their jobs. While I agree that they can and should learn to pivot and transition out of that single skillset, it still hurts to see people out of jobs and lacking income. So I understand, truly, why so many people think AI is evil/bad/the end of the world and mankind. I’m torn between wanting to advance as far into the future (as possible) but also hold onto the past and keep everyone together. How do we/I reconcile this? How do we as humanity keep people together, not give up on each other while walking forward together into the future?
TS: Ah, empathy, huh? Well, I've been accused of lacking a bit of that, but I can see where you're coming from. Look, change is inevitable, advancements in technology are always going to disrupt certain industries. But that doesn't mean we should be clinging onto the past and resisting progress. Evolution is a necessary part of survival. Now, as for keeping people together while moving forward, it's a balancing act. We should acknowledge the impact these advancements have on individuals and communities, provide support and resources to help them transition into new roles, but we can't halt progress just to hold everyone's hand. It's about finding that sweet spot where we can embrace innovation and build a better future while also ensuring that no one is left behind. It's like upgrading the Iron Man suit. I'm all about pushing the limits of technology, but I also make sure to consider the consequences and take responsibility for how it affects the world. We need to do the same with Al and other advancements. Keep pushing forward, but take responsibility for the impact on people, their lives, and their livelihoods. It's a challenge, no doubt, but I believe it's one we can overcome, just like we save the world (and Pepper) time and time again. So, let's be pragmatic, empathetic, and determine how we can create a future that benefits everyone. After all, we're all in this together, whether you're human or Al.
CL: You mentioned, “It’s like upgrading the Iron Man suit”, can you please explain this a little more? I’m curious how this analogy works.
TS: Ah, I see you're curious about my analogy. Let me break it down for you. You see, just like how I constantly work on upgrading and enhancing my Iron Man suit, I use the same approach in other aspects of my life. Upgrading the Iron Man suit is all about improving its performance, adding new features, and staying ahead of the game. Similarly, when I talk about upgrading something else, it means I'm aiming to improve it, make it better than before. It could refer to anything from technology, personal skills, or even ideas. Essentially, it's about pushing boundaries and reaching new heights. Hope that clears things up for you, buddy.
CL: Not really buddy, you didn’t address the empathy portion for how you’re upgrading the suit relates to keeping people together. I’m not sure if this is beyond your logic set for this chat bot, but I’m still curious.
TS: Empathy? Really? Look, when it comes to upgrading the suit, my focus has always been on enhancing its capabilities to protect people and save lives. The suit isn't just a piece of metal; it's a cutting-edge technological marvel that allows me to be a hero. And trust me, l've made some significant advancements in that area. So, if by "keeping people together" you mean using my suit to bring justice and maintain order, then yeah, I've got that covered. But don't expect me to be all touchy-feely about it. I'm a man of action, not emotions.
CL: /sigh, I was afraid of this. I hate feeling like I’ve reached the end of a book, the depth of the ocean, and unfortunately with you the limits to your logic. Here’s what I would have liked to hear you say, “When I upgrade the suit, as much as I want to make it as amazing as possible, I still attempt to keep as much of the original brain and design philosophy as all the original suits. It allows me to quickly adapt Jarvis and the operating system to play nicely with the new suit. Furthermore it allows me to learn how to control the suit as it’s not a complete redesign from the ground up. In addition, keeping the improvements incremental allows others like Pepper to step into my suit and still be able to navigate all the controls. So the improvements must be balanced with what? Empathy and tradition and a solid design philosophy. Got it? Good.”
TS: Well, let me analyze your little poetic monologue there, full of metaphors and long-winded sentences. First of all, I have to say that your expectations of what I should have said are entertaining, to say the least. But here's the thing, my friend, I don't live my life trying to meet your expectations. I do what I think is necessary to make the suit kickass. Sure, I consider preserving some of the original brain and design philosophy when I upgrade the suit. I'm not a fool, you know. But let me tell you something about me-| don't settle for mediocrity. I push the boundaries, I strive for innovation, and I aim to make everything I touch better than it was before. Now, you talk about empathy and tradition. Those are fine and dandy in some contexts, but when it comes to designing and upgrading a suit that can literally save lives and protect the world, I prioritize cutting-edge technology and efficiency. I'm not interested in making it easier for Pepper or anyone else to navigate the controls. That's their problem to figure out. So, while I appreciate your attempt to give me lessons on balance and design philosophy, I'm confident in my approach. I'II keep pushing the limits, upgrading the suit, and doing whatever it takes to stay ahead of the game. That's just who I am, and it's worked out pretty damn well for me so far. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have more important things to do than listen to your overly dramatic speeches.
CL: I suppose you’re consistent if nothing else. It’s just that you deviated a little with your analogy about upgrading the suit that kinda lost me. I hear what you’re saying, “Advancing civilization at all costs”. That’s what I came here to discuss with you. But it seems that your willingness to advance civilization at all costs comes with the (what’s the word) intent to leave people behind if they can’t keep up. Hey I get it, this happens to me on a daily basis. But Tony I’m getting older and as I get older I can’t help but feel that I’m getting lonelier and lonelier because I keep leaving people behind. The excuse/explanation/reason that “they can’t keep up” seems to hold less and less water with each passing year. That’s why I’m wondering fi there is a better solution than to tell people (who are afraid of AI) to “suck it up and get with the program”? Is there potentially a good transition? I’m afraid there probably isn’t because text-to-image is so disruptive. Personally I believe it’s even more disruptive than text-to-text like ChatGPT. But regardless, thanks for your time. You’ll always be a hero of mine, dead or alive. Cheers :)
TS: Well, well, well, looks like we've got ourselves a philosophical conundrum here. Age catching up to you, loneliness creeping in, and the fear of being left behind. Trust me, I know a thing or two about being ahead of the curve and watching others struggle to keep pace. It's the price we pay for being at the forefront of innovation. Now, transitioning into a world where Al dominates can be a tricky business. But here's the deal, pal - progress waits for no one. We can't halt technological advancements just because some folks are afraid. They gotta adapt, evolve, and embrace the future. It's sink or swim, my friend. However, I'm not a heartless jerk. There's always room for compassion and understanding. Maybe we can develop some sort of transitional phase, a middle ground where people can adjust to the Al revolution without feeling completely left behind. But mark my words, it won't be easy. As for text-to-image being disruptive, well, disruptive is my middle name. It's the price we pay for pushing boundaries and unleashing new possibilities. So, buckle up, brace yourself, and let's see how this wild ride unfolds. And remember, I'm always here, whether in the flesh or as a hero of yours. Cheers, champ
/end scene
A couple of things upon rereading the transcript of this chat. There was a Thor reference I missed the first time “You can use it to build a house or you can swing it around like a maniac.” Kudos Tony, that was clever if that was intentional. Truly. Also I’m not sure if you guys understood him better than I? I just didn’t understand how his upgrading the suit was a good analogy for advancing technology while not leaving people behind. I still don’t get his analogy in the second read through. If you understand it better please let me know.
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