This week's blogosphere is buzzing with a diverse range of topics, from the intricacies of artificial intelligence to the price of produce and philosophical ponderings on morality and art. Let's dive into a curated selection of intriguing links, all brought to you by Marginal REVOLUTION.
AI Aesthetics and the Future of GPT
First up, the ever-evolving world of AI. An insightful tweet from Bob McGrew has sparked a lively discussion about GPT 4.5. According to one commentator, "I am more positive on 4.5 than almost anyone else I have read. I view it as a model that attempts to improve on the dimension of aesthetics only. As we know from Kant's third Critique, that is about […]"
Is the future of AI purely aesthetic? Will machines be judged on their ability to create beauty, rather than just solve problems? It's a fascinating question to consider as AI continues to integrate into our daily lives.
The Ethics of Helping Others
Shifting gears to the realm of morality, Matt Yglesias offers his thoughts on ethical frameworks. He aligns himself with utilitarian and consequentialist ideas, particularly highlighting Richard Y Chappell's concept of Beneficentrism. This philosophy emphasizes "the claim that one very important thing in life is to try to help others, including those who are very different or distant from ourselves."
It's a powerful reminder to consider the impact of our actions on those around us, both near and far. In an increasingly interconnected world, the idea of helping others, regardless of their background or location, is more relevant than ever.
Strawberries, AI Writing, and the Power of Art
On a lighter note, one link highlights the existence of a "$19 strawberry." A stark reminder of inflation and the varying costs of seemingly simple pleasures. Another link points out that "Writing for the AI is paying off," suggesting a growing demand for content tailored to artificial intelligence.
Finally, the collection includes a profound reflection on art, quoting Gerhard Richter as saying that a good picture “takes away our certainty,” and suggesting (Philip Guston) that doing so enables us to “begin to see the push and pull of impulse, recanting, and reconfiguration that constitute painting and, by extension, life itself.”
This quote beautifully encapsulates the transformative power of art. It challenges us to question our assumptions and embrace the messy, unpredictable nature of life.
So, whether you're pondering the aesthetics of AI, contemplating your moral obligations, or simply marveling at the price of a strawberry, there's something for everyone in this week's assortment of links. Be sure to check out Marginal REVOLUTION for more thought-provoking content.