The AI Coding Conundrum: Why We Shouldn’t Fear the Future… Yet

In recent days, I found myself diving into a fascinating yet chaotic endeavor, experimenting with two AI platforms: ChatGPT and CLAUDE. My goal was straightforward: I wanted to create a set of graphics for my Substack newsletter. Initially, I considered using PowerPoint—simple, direct, and familiar. However, I thought, “Why not take a bold leap and explore the potential of AI coding instead?”

What I anticipated to be a time-saving shortcut turned into a rather convoluted journey. With the promise of the AI assisting me, I was filled with excitement at the thought of quickly generating beautiful graphics. Little did I know, this decision would lead to an arduous cycle of troubleshooting and unexpected challenges.

As we progressed, each attempt to resolve one issue unearthed a host of additional problems. It turned into a frustrating game of whack-a-mole, where fixing one glitch only seemed to reveal another. Instead of the seamless, efficient workflow I envisioned, the experience soon devolved into a humorous but chaotic adventure—a true “cluster” of mishaps. After days of grappling with the complexities, I ultimately decided to return to the tried-and-true method of creating my PowerPoint presentation, completing it in just over three hours.

This experience left me pondering the current state of AI development. Today’s AI performs at a level reminiscent of a novice coder fresh out of boot camp, struggling to manage basic tasks on their first mission. While it’s true that advancements like Reinforcement Learning from Human Feedback (RLHF) will undoubtedly pave the way for smarter automated systems in the future, the journey remains fraught with hurdles.

For now, concerns about an impending AI apocalypse might be more about misplaced fears or sensational media narratives rather than impending reality. As we navigate this wave of technological progress, let’s not forget the importance of patience and perspective. Instead of succumbing to anxiety over AI’s capabilities, perhaps it’s better to sit back, pour your favorite drink—be it Scotch or a soothing herbal remedy—and take a moment to breathe.

In essence, while AI may hold vast potential, we’re still living in a world where human ingenuity remains the cornerstone of creativity and problem-solving. Embrace the journey, enjoy the learning process, and remember to have a little fun along the way!