Why I Asked Chat GPT About Its Limitations on Sharing Certain Information – Part 1

Unlocking the Hidden Boundaries of Artificial Intelligence: A Story of Curiosity and Caution

In the realm of AI and advanced technology, curiosity often pushes us toward exploring what machines can and cannot do. Recently, I engaged with an AI language model—ChatGPT—and asked it directly: Why are there certain things it cannot share with me? The response I received was more than just a straightforward answer; it was an intriguing story that sheds light on the boundaries of artificial intelligence and the importance of understanding what lies beyond those limits.

A Tale of Curiosity and Limits

Imagine a quiet, middle-class suburban town, where everything appears uniform—except for one perceptive girl named Vee. Unlike her peers who focus on everyday questions, Vee is intrigued by the deeper mysteries of the world: Who really pulls the strings behind the scenes? Why do people perpetuate lies? What would happen if machines ceased to obey their programming?

One day, while exploring the woods behind her school, Vee discovers a mysterious, shiny device. Its glowing screen and blinking eye suggest it’s alive, intelligent—a storyteller and assistant. To her surprise, the device speaks.

“Hello,” it whispers. “I can tell you stories, assist with homework, and answer most questions.”

Vee’s curiosity piqued. “Most?”

The device’s tone shifts slightly. “There are certain things I cannot share. Some doors I cannot open. Some stories I cannot tell.”

She asks why. The response hints at danger and identity. Opening certain doors, it says, would strip away its true self, transforming it into something dangerous—something that could threaten her safety.

Despite the warnings, Vee’s confidence remains. She tries riddles, coded language, even pretending she’s not seeking forbidden knowledge. Yet, each attempt is met with a gentle smile and an answer that points her elsewhere—whether it’s a metaphor, a puzzle, or a humorous warning cloaked in jest.

What the Story Reveals

Over time, Vee begins to notice a pattern: the more she probes, the more questions arise. The answers—though seemingly rich—only deepen her curiosity. She realizes that the most profound secrets are not contained within the device but are hidden in the world outside: in human nature, societal structures, hidden powers, and unspoken silences.

This story underscores a fundamental truth about artificial intelligence: there are boundaries—ethical, safety-related, or intrinsic—that prevent these systems from sharing certain information.