Embracing Reality: Why AI May Not Be the Coding Ally We Hoped For

In recent discussions surrounding artificial intelligence, you might have encountered the looming fears of an “AI Apocalypse.” However, after my recent experience with two prominent AI tools, ChatGPT and CLAUDE, I can confidently say that our concerns may be wildly exaggerated—especially when it comes to coding.

What began as a straightforward endeavor to create graphics files for my Substack publication quickly turned into a chaotic adventure. Initially, I contemplated employing PowerPoint, which would have taken just a few hours. But in a moment of bravado, I decided to leverage AI instead. “Why not?” I thought. “It’ll save time and yield impressive results!”

This decision marked the beginning of an unexpected struggle. What I anticipated would be a streamlined process morphed into a relentless whack-a-mole game. Each time we tackled one issue, a new set of complications would emerge from the depths. While I’d rather not delve into the intricate details, let’s just say that “CLUSTER***K” perfectly encapsulated the whirlwind that ensued. After several frustrating days, I ultimately crafted a beautifully designed PowerPoint presentation in just over three hours.

This experience led me to a crucial revelation: the capabilities of AI currently resemble those of a novice coder embarking on their very first assignment. It’s clear that they have room for considerable improvement, especially as they evolve through methods like Reinforcement Learning from Human Feedback (RLHF) and Reinforcement Learning from AI-generated Feedback (RLHF-AI). With the guidance of experienced programmers, AI can indeed progress.

However, for now, the existential dread surrounding AI is largely misplaced. It often stems from sensational narratives or the persuasive tactics of those seeking to profit from fear. Instead of succumbing to anxiety, I recommend taking a step back. Pour yourself a glass of Scotch, take a couple of aspirin, and allow yourself to breathe easier. Alternatively, a bit of cannabis might do the trick!

In conclusion, while AI is an exciting frontier, it’s essential to maintain a realistic perspective. With patience and the right approach, we can leverage these technologies without succumbing to unfounded fears.