How can we use AI more intelligently?

Computers and smartphones have become saturated with artificial intelligence (AI) features. While many people didn’t ask for this and would rather their programs work the way they always did, AI has become an unavoidable reality in tech. While there are still major questions to be answered regarding the environmental sustainability and social impacts of AI technology, now is also a good time to understand how to use AI for the greatest benefit and minimal harm.
One of the more dangerous ways to use AI is to ask “yes/no” questions where the asker expects AI to give a concrete answer with little or no context. A more productive way to interact with AI can be to pose more open-ended questions or ask for background information. You might consider AI as a reference librarian with vast background knowledge instead of an all-knowing entity that can provide conclusive advice.

The bottom line is that the internet is at its best when it’s a catalyst for human curiosity and connection. Yet, the way society interacts with AI, many often look for easy answers to difficult questions. By keeping curiosity open and maintaining the human component of decision making, you can keep yourself protected from the “hallucinations” and wrong answers that AI conversations often provide.

Check out this recent article in the New York Times that discusses this subject.