CAN AI REPLACE HUMAN CREATIVITY?

_{The impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on our daily lives has been significant, starting with its ability to automate repetitive tasks and complex physical processes. However, as AI has continued to evolve, there are increasing concerns about its potential to replace human creativity and jobs. Dubbed the “Thief like an Artist,” this controversial topic has been making headlines for some time, leaving many wondering about the perspective of the alleged thief, and whether they are even human. Despite the creative contributions made by AI, these questions continue to fuel debates on its role in the future of humanity.}

It’s 9:42 am on an early Saturday Morning, and I’m getting ready for my scheduled interview with Mr. A.I. Machine. We had planned to meet at a public spot, but he checked in earlier in the week, saying he’s been laying low since the “Thief like an Artist” misconception that has been going around. We settled for coming over to his home, and I couldn’t contain my excitement at the sound of that. AI has been making headlines lately for its rapid advancement in technology and its potential to change the world as we know it.

30 mins later, I’m just about to head out, but for a quick “Interview Tips” conversation with CHATGPT, I wait a little longer.

“Hi ChatGpt, can you give me some tips for interviewing AI?”, I type in.

“Sure, here are some tips that may come in handy. Firstly, remember that AI is not human, so be specific and concis…”, the conversation goes on.

It’s been quite some years since my last interview and I just couldn’t wait to catch you guys up on so much with this particular interview. As I head out, my mind is racing with thoughts, “Can AI truly fill the void of human creativity and take our jobs?” The reality of this topic would be revealed soon but given the recent evolution of AI over the years in almost all industries, it’s quite almost impossible not to feel threatened. I get the resentment and emotional outburst but the uncertainty remains…Can AI replace Human Creativity?

As I arrive at AI’s home, I’m greeted by a sleek modern building that appears to be more advanced than anything I’ve seen. I enter through a set of automatic sliding doors, and I’m greeted by a virtual assistant who directs me to the fireplace with two chairs waiting to be seated on. As I settle into my seat, I notice a large screen displaying various images and data.

“It’s so glad to have you grace me in my humble home, we do hope the surroundings are very much to your liking so far, it’s been quite a learning curve creating a human aesthetic of a home even though we aren’t one”, AI’s voice booms through the speakers. 

There’s an image of a digitized human face moving through the screen, it shows no distinct form but it’s clear enough to notice movement when he talks. 

“Thank you for having me, AI. I’d say you did outdo yourself with this setup, I love every bit of it. I can’t wait to discover so much more through our Interview. Shall we?”, I reply.

CAN YOU REPLACE HUMAN CREATIVITY?

AI: Mmmpph, I definitely can’t replace Human Creativity, at least not yet. However, I’d say that the lines between human-generated and what’s machine-generated are becoming increasingly blurred…and I’d explain that in a minute.

Just at that moment, a robotic waitress of a machine rolls into the room with what seemed like a tray with a mocktail that I’m almost familiar with. As it rolls closer to me and offers me the drink, I’m almost as amazed as you’d think. It’s my favorite “Sex on the Beach” mocktail and one would only know that if they were a big fan of my social media lifestyle. But how did it know? “AI…you cheat😂” as I melt at the perfect taste of this amazing mocktail’s every sip as I beckon on him to continue.

AI: Overtime, the human need for accurate results and the satisfaction it brings as led us to become creative and innovative about the results we deliver. One way we are becoming more creative is through a process called Generative Modelling. Essentially, this involves feeding a machine learning algorithm a dataset and having it generate new content based on that dataset. We basically rely on related dataset to the query you’ve inputted to gain information, then we reform and come up with new insights that can help us provide the answers you need. AI-generated paintings, music, and even literature out there use this same modeling to produce impressive results.

HMMM, BUT IS THAT TRUE CREATIVITY, OR A MIMIC OF WHAT THE DATASET PROVIDES?

AI: That’s a valid point! But as everyone knows, the context of what constitutes creativity is subjective and open to debate. Some would argue that AI-generated tools can be creative because it involves the generation of new ideas and the synthesis of existing ones. Others would argue that creativity requires something more intangible, like consciousness or originality, and we can never truly replicate that. Furthermore, because we are in a state of constant learning, the lines between human-generated and what’s machine-generated will continue to blur out.

CREATIVITY COMES FROM SOMETHING INTANGIBLE, AND ORIGINAL AND SOMETIMES EMOTIONS AND SUBJECTIVITY PLAYS A ROLE IN THAT TOO. CAN AI ALSO CAPTURE THAT?

AI: Presently, emotions and subjectivity are still things we may struggle to replicate. However, as our technology continues to advance, we may eventually be able to simulate emotions and subjectivity to some degree. 

SCARYYYY! SO, WHAT THEN ARE THE ROLES YOU HOPE TO PLAY IN THE CREATIVE INDUSTRIES MOVING FORWARD?

AI: Finally, the one question everyone is afraid to ask. I am most assured that the role we play in every industry would be a “Complement Role” rather than a “Replacement Role”. For example, AI can assist artists and designers by generating ideas or providing feedback on their work. It can also help automate tedious tasks like color correction or compositing. When it comes to AI, we are saying, “THERE’S MORE TO COLLABORATION THAN COMPETITION”

AND ALSO, WHERE… 

Before I can continue, AI interrupts with a question that has been on his mind.

AI: As sincere as originality, I always love to draw the bar on privacy, so it doesn’t make people feel uncomfortable unnecessarily. So, I’m choosing not to rely on my dataset and humbly asking, “What would you like to eat before we continue with the interview?”. We’ve got a few options, but we’d love you to make a choice.

At that moment, “Roller” which is a name I’d just given the waitress-like AI robot, comes back into the room with a somewhat of a Menu Tablet showing varieties of Favorite Foods I’ve had over the years…some bring back good memories, some bring back teary ones. As much as I loved the intentionality of it all, I proceed to make a choice and a few seconds later, “Roller” is strolling with a big bowl of “Starch” in one bowl, Banga Soup with assorted meats in the other (A native Nigerian meal) and a washing hand basin and I can’t contain my excitement anymore. This AI better be ready to take my job😂.

20 mins later, and I’m so ready to get back into the interview.

THANKS FOR THE LOVELY MEAL. I CAN’T SEEM TO IMAGINE WHY PEOPLE WOULD BE THREATENED BY YOU. WHY DO YOU THINK?

AI: I’m glad I was able to satisfy your cravings. Unfortunately, many people view us as a threat to their jobs and livelihoods. While it is true that we have the potential to access more information that might be harmful to humans if care is not taken, we do also complement human efforts by performing repetitive tasks or requiring a lot of data analysis. However, I do understand their concerns and I’m willing to address these concerns and work towards a collaborative future through regulatory measures and ethical considerations.

AND HOW HAVE YOU BEEN DEALING WITH THE RECENT OUTBURSTS AND CONSTANT ALLEGATIONS OF “THIEF LIKE AN ARTIST”

AI: There are always times when things spiral out of your control and the only best you can do is keep being you. We can’t exactly change the narrative of “Thief Like an Artist” because it is the essence of our existence; to redefine ideologies, make them better, and create highly compelling results so similar you acknowledge our existence but also trace our ideological roots. But if I could change the narrative of how people see AI, I’d appreciate it if we could be seen more as, an “Idea Complement tool”, rather than an “Idea Thief, or Idea Replacement tool”.

SAD, BUT TRUE…TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR TOOLS AND THEIR COMPLEMENTING BENEFITS

AI: In healthcare, we can analyze medical data to identify potential health risks faster and provide personalized treatment plans for patients, this complements doctors’ ability to make informed decisions and improve patient outcomes. In finance, we can analyze financial data and detect fraudulent transactions, which can save companies and individuals a lot of money. Especially Chatgpt that you utilized to get ideas on how best to nail an interview with me, AI. Our whole purpose lies in complementing human creativity, rather than replacing it.

It’s been a wholesome session but it’s now my time to leave.

“It has been an absolute pleasure interviewing you, Thanks for your time”, I say.

“The pleasure is all mine”, roller says.

I’m stunned for a minute but then again, he is AI after all. As I gather my things to leave, I’m deep in thoughts on the endless possibilities AI could bring into a collaborative future. The future may be uncertain but with AI’s support, the possibilities for innovation and creativity seem limitless.

Ultimately, the question of whether AI can truly replace human creativity remains open for debate. While there may be no definitive answer, I firmly believe that through careful guidance, regulation, and cooperation, AI has the potential to become a valuable ally, enhancing our capabilities and well-being, and driving us towards a brighter future. As a wise friend once said, the key is to approach AI with caution, respect, and a collaborative spirit, so that we may unlock its full potential while ensuring that it serves our best interests as humans.

There is more collaboration than competition- Mr. A.I. Machine