AI theorists debate something called the “paperclip maximizer problem”. It’s a cautionary tale where a robot is instructed to produce as many paperclips as possible. With no further instructions, the machine runs out of raw materials and starts killing us and destroying the earth in its relentless pursuit of more paperclips.
Very insightful, @Jay Vidyarthi we really need lots of mindfulness to help us reflect on “what we are optimizing” for, AI and otherwise. Thank you for sharing your wisdom!
Love this. Made me think of a recent article about optimization culture at work by journalist Anne Helen Peterson. I think you’d dig it. She cites a concept - “one best way” - by a little known French philosopher from over a hundred years ago that is still so relevant today. Describing how structures of optimization (which didn’t have a name then) control and shape our lives through labour relationships. Mind blowing.
Thanks Chris - absolutely loved it. The thrust of optimization culture creating a treadmill that aligns with the goals of capitalism is a great. I also particularly enjoyed clarity around how the need to improve something robs you of your ability to enjoy it / feel comfortable in it. So true.
The quote from Sacasas for any who don't click Chris' link:
"One under-appreciated consequence of believing there is such a thing as the ‘one best way’ in every aspect of life is subsequently living with the unyielding pressure to discover it and the inevitable and perpetual frustration of failing to achieve it... and not only frustration. It produces anxiety, fear, compulsiveness, resignation, and, ultimately, self-loathing. If there is 'one best way,' how will I know it? If I have not found it, have I failed? And is it my fault?"
Very insightful, @Jay Vidyarthi we really need lots of mindfulness to help us reflect on “what we are optimizing” for, AI and otherwise. Thank you for sharing your wisdom!
Love this. Made me think of a recent article about optimization culture at work by journalist Anne Helen Peterson. I think you’d dig it. She cites a concept - “one best way” - by a little known French philosopher from over a hundred years ago that is still so relevant today. Describing how structures of optimization (which didn’t have a name then) control and shape our lives through labour relationships. Mind blowing.
https://slickinbox.com/share/chrisconnolly-the-optimization-sinkhole-d3d67424
Thanks Chris - absolutely loved it. The thrust of optimization culture creating a treadmill that aligns with the goals of capitalism is a great. I also particularly enjoyed clarity around how the need to improve something robs you of your ability to enjoy it / feel comfortable in it. So true.
The quote from Sacasas for any who don't click Chris' link:
"One under-appreciated consequence of believing there is such a thing as the ‘one best way’ in every aspect of life is subsequently living with the unyielding pressure to discover it and the inevitable and perpetual frustration of failing to achieve it... and not only frustration. It produces anxiety, fear, compulsiveness, resignation, and, ultimately, self-loathing. If there is 'one best way,' how will I know it? If I have not found it, have I failed? And is it my fault?"