The article discusses the critical perspectives of AI researchers Emily Bender and Alex Hanna on the current AI hype and misconceptions. They argue that the term “artificial intelligence” is misleading and has been co-opted by tech companies to create unrealistic expectations. The researchers emphasize that current AI systems, including large language models, are essentially pattern matching tools that process statistical correlations in training data, rather than truly intelligent or conscious entities. They warn against the dangers of anthropomorphizing AI systems and treating them as having human-like capabilities. The article highlights how tech companies exploit this misconception to deflect responsibility for their systems’ outputs and to justify collecting vast amounts of personal data. Bender and Hanna also criticize the tendency to attribute agency to AI systems, which they argue obscures the human decisions and biases embedded in their development. They warn that the current AI narrative serves corporate interests while downplaying real concerns about privacy, labor rights, and environmental impact. The researchers call for a more grounded and honest discussion about what AI technologies actually are and can do, emphasizing the importance of understanding them as tools created by humans rather than autonomous intelligent beings. Their message underscores the need for greater transparency and accountability in how AI systems are developed and deployed.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/the-ai-con-emily-bender-alex-hanna-ai-hype-2025-5