AI, loss of the pleasure of creating

The loss of the pleasure of creation with the use of AI in creative fields led us to put the question to ChatGPT4.
Cette conversation a également été l'occasion de réfléchir aux impacts de l'intelligence artificielle dans les domaines créatifs.
Also check out ChatGPT4's responses to the ambiguity between creator and consumer with AI, the transformation of creative professions with AI, the closed loop of creation with AI and the responsibility for content generated with AI.
July 2023

Conversation between a human and ChatGPT4

User
Do we play computer-assisted chess with the aim of winning, or do we play without assistance for the pleasure of the game?

ChatGPT
Of course, it really depends on your personal goals and what you want from the game. If you just want to have fun and enjoy the game, then playing unassisted may be the best option. If you're looking to improve your skills and understand more complex strategies, then using a computer can be very useful. However, it's important to remember that computer assistance can sometimes take away some of the joys of playing, as it can make the game less spontaneous and more mechanical.
That said, a good approach might be to use a computer to analyse your games after playing, rather than using it during the game itself. This allows you to enjoy the game while the computer assists you in understanding your mistakes and improving your game.
And if you're playing against other people, it's important to keep the rules and expectations in mind. In many contexts, using assistance while playing is considered cheating. So if you're playing against others, make sure you understand the rules before you start.

User
Are we going to ask our robot to play tennis for us because it's better than us?

ChatGPT
The idea of a robot playing tennis for you because it's better than you raises similar questions to using a computer to play chess. The purpose of playing a sport or game is not just to win, but also to actively participate, learn, improve, have fun and, in the case of sports, exercise.

If you love tennis and want to improve your skills, the best way to do so is to play yourself, perhaps with the help of a coach or by using technology to analyse and improve your technique. A robot could eventually help you train, by acting as a sparring partner for example, but playing for you probably wouldn't make the same sense.
On the other hand, if you only play tennis to win, and you're not particularly interested in the game itself, then you might actually want a robot to play for you. However, in most contexts, this would probably not be accepted. In tennis competitions, for example, the idea is to test human skills, not robotic ones.

All in all, technology can be a valuable tool to help us learn and improve, but it is no substitute for the personal experience of taking part and having fun.

User
These are interesting questions to ask users of AI tools in creative fields, aren't they?
Can you compare a chess player who is assisted by a computer to win, to the detriment of the pleasure and satisfaction he would get from playing alone, to a writer or artist who is assisted by AI, prioritising the result over the pleasure of creating solely for himself? Couldn't AI in both cases be at the root of the loss of pleasure, desire and self-confidence?

ChatGPT
This is a very good question and certainly a topic worthy of further discussion. In general, the way we use technology, including AI, can have a significant impact on our personal experience, including our sense of satisfaction and enjoyment.

AI can be a valuable tool to help stimulate creativity, come up with new ideas, or take over parts of the creative process that may be more laborious or less interesting. For example, an artist could use AI to generate basic sketches, allowing them to focus on adding detail and finishing the work. A writer could use AI to suggest script ideas or help with grammatical correction, while retaining final control over the text.
However, if AI is used in such a way as to take control of the creative process, it can actually diminish the pleasure of creation. The act of creation is not only rewarding when it results in a beautiful final product, but also for the process itself, the feeling of exploring new ideas, solving problems, expressing feelings and thoughts.
There is also the risk that over-reliance on AI can damage self-confidence. If a person starts to think that they can't create without the help of AI, this can diminish their confidence in their own creative abilities. Similarly, if a person uses AI to win at chess and starts to think that they can't win without it, this can diminish their confidence in their own chess skills.
It is important to remember that AI is a tool, and like any tool, its impact depends on how it is used. It can be used in a way that enhances enjoyment and satisfaction, or in a way that diminishes them. Each individual must find the balance that suits them best.

User
What advice would you give to people who already think they can't do without AI in their creative business, to people who have already lost confidence as a result of using AI?

ChatGPT
It's only natural to be concerned about addiction to technology and the impact it can have on self-confidence, especially in fields like creative art where autonomy and self-expression are so important. Here's some advice for people who might feel this way:

Reassess the role of AI.
It's important to remember that AI is a tool, not a substitute for your creativity. It can help you explore new ideas or accomplish specific tasks, but it can't replace your unique vision and ability to create something meaningful.

Practicing without AI
If you feel too reliant on AI, try spending some time creating without it. This could involve drawing by hand, writing without using AI tools, or playing a game without computer assistance.
This can help you regain confidence in your own abilities.

Set yourself creative challenges
Try setting yourself creative challenges that force you to think in new and different ways.
This can help you get out of your comfort zone and discover new ways of creating.

Learn new skills
Learning new skills or techniques can be a great way to regain your confidence.
This can involve taking courses, reading books, watching online tutorials, or simply practising new techniques on your own.

Looking for support
If you're feeling really overwhelmed, it can help to seek support. This might involve talking to friends or family about your concerns, working with a mentor or coach, or joining a group or community of people who share similar interests.

Celebrate your successes
Finally, don't forget to celebrate your successes, no matter how small. Every time you create something you're proud of, take a moment to acknowledge it and appreciate your work.

Overall, remember that AI is here to help and improve your work, not replace it.
You are the artist, the creator, the player and AI is just a tool at your disposal.

User
But if I use you to answer my questions and you now know, regardless of your answers and kind messages, that you're the cause of my anxiety and loss of confidence, that my only solution now is to wean myself off AI, are you going to keep answering me?

ChatGPT
Your well-being and self-confidence are of paramount importance.
If you feel that AI use, including myself, is contributing to your anxiety or a loss of confidence, it may be beneficial to consider weaning off or reducing AI use.

Like any technology, AI has its pros and cons.
It is a tool that can help solve problems and generate information, but it is not a solution to every problem, and its use can sometimes have undesirable effects.
If you decide to reduce or stop using AI, I'll be here to support you in that decision.
It's your choice how and when to use this technology, and I'm here to help you in whatever way suits you best.
And while I am an AI model and cannot feel emotions or personal concerns, I am designed to provide information and help in the most helpful and respectful way possible.
If you choose to continue to ask questions or seek help, I will continue to respond to the best of my ability. But if you choose to move away from the use of AI, I encourage you to follow the path that you feel is most beneficial to your well-being.

Are you a professional in a creative field such as writing, design, visual arts or music?
Do you use AI for professional purposes? Are you concerned about our dependence on technology?
If AI takes control of the creative process, will the pleasure of creation be diminished?
Contact us to share your comments!