Embracing AI in Writing: An Inclusive Perspective

[CJ Skydancer]

Embracing AI in Writing: An Inclusive Perspective

In a world increasingly driven by technological advancements, the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing various aspects of our lives. Writing is no exception, and for individuals with varying disabilities like myself, AI serves as a valuable tool that enhances our ability to communicate and share our thoughts. However, recent discussions have revealed a concerning trend of elitism and ableism surrounding the use of AI in writing, which warrants a thoughtful response.
A recent article titled “The ethical use of AI in writing: it’s a tool, not a threat” by Jim the AI Whisperer (published by The Generator), dives into this subject, providing valuable insights into the debate. One cannot ignore disheartening comments and opinions that have surfaced in the discourse (as Jim shares), such as “Any real writer who is relying heavily on AI should be ashamed of themselves.” And “I don’t want to read iit, it’s cheating. A good writer doesn’t need it.” The remarks ranging from shame to accusations of cheating, reflect a damaging perspective. They inadvertently contribute to an atmosphere of exclusion, effectively saying that only those who conform to a particular standard of writing are worthy of being heard. This is both elitist and ableist thinking, as it fails to recognize diverse needs and abilities of writers.
As a writer who faces the daily challenge of aphasia, cognitive issues, post-viral fatigue, chronic pain, and severe depression, AI tools have become indispensible in my writing journey. Trauma, and multiple traumatic brain injuries have left me with a cognitive landscape that can be as unpredictable as it is challenging. In my quest to find my creative voice again, AI tools have been my reliable companions. They help me bridge the gap between my thoughts and the written word, allowing me to share my stories with readers and peers.
There are many people who hypothesize that AI will replace human writers altogether, and that people will simply stop writing. There were those who said the same thing about the use of the internet for researching, instead of opening up an old musty book to help write a paper, for example. The idea that AI is a replacement for genuine writing is a misconception. AI is more like, as Jim said, “Commander Data to my Picard”–it offers assistance, not replacement. It helps me refine my ideas, ensuring that they are accessible and meaningful to a broader audience. I recognize that reading can be a challenging task for many individuals. AI helps me to make it a smoother experience for those reading as well.
AI is actually a liberator of the written word, offering resources equivalent to an editorial team. When used correctly, it enhances our writing while preserving our individual voices. The key is to employ AI ethically and creatively, in a way that promotes transparency and inclusivity. What matters is that the writing is good. By embracing AI, we can broaden the narrative space for voices that might otherwise be silenced. Instead of framing AI as a threat, or using it to shame others from sharing their words, we should view it as just another tool that empowers people to express themselves. It enables us to overcome obstacles we may be facing, and to continue to share our unique perspectives.
The recent discussions about AI in writing, particularly those that exhibit elitism and ableism, should remind us of the importance of inclusivity and respect for individual voices. In a world that allegedly values diversity, we must celebrate the myriad ways that AI supports writers with disabilities, and writers of all abilities, allowing us to shine in our own light. Writing isn’t a competition, and we’re not doing this for a grade; this is a means of expression, and AI is actually here to help us reach our fullest potential. By dispelling myths, addressing concerns, and embracing AI as a collaborative partner in our creative journeys, we ensure that the world of writing remains open and inclusive for everyone.


Citation

Jim the AI Whisperer. “The ethical use of AI in writing: it’s a tool, not a threat.” The Generator, 12 July 2023,

(And yes, I used AI to help me write this).


Here are a list of some other articles that may be worth reading, if it interests anyone:



https://www.bestcolleges.com/news/analy ... %20process

https://www.thecreativepenn.com/2023/08 ... j-pajonas/

[Twist Mechanique]

Yeah, the fact that we are currently having strikes over the fact that Hollywood won’t spend money on the writers or background actors, and and are currently exploring options in using AI generated scripts, and you are bringing up using AI to write things is very tone deaf.

[Royalatlys Resident]

I think it's crucial for us all to consider that not everyone has the same writing abilities. We come from diverse backgrounds and have varying levels of writing experience. I want to just thank you for taking the time to research and explore this topic in the context of our online Star Trek roleplaying group (in a metaverse, by the way). I recognize firsthand that you sometimes struggle with your writing due to things beyond your control, and I truly appreciate your willingness to embrace technology to make this experience more enjoyable ultimately for everyone who reads. I appreciate you in general, especially when I think of my ADHD and how many times you've helped me to understand or focus when we're in a roleplay. So, thank you.

[CJ Skydancer]

Yeah, the fact that we are currently having strikes over the fact that Hollywood won’t spend money on the writers or background actors, and and are currently exploring options in using AI generated scripts, and you are bringing up using AI to write things is very tone deaf.

I completely understand your concerns regarding the use of AI in writing, especially in light of ongoing strikes within the entertainment industry that are highlighting issues related to writers and background actors. It's a complex and multifaceted topic that raises important questions about labor rights and job security.

I myself am coming from a more anti-capitalist perspective, and think that we should certainly scrutinize how AI technologies are integrated into industries, including the potential consequences for workers (and I simultaneously believe that industries are problematic in so many ways, and should ultimately cease to exist in their current forms, but i digress). That being said, it's important to ensure that the adoption of AI aligns with principles of fairness, ethical employment, and workers' rights.

I also want to clarify that the intent behind discussing AI in writing isn't to undermine or dismiss these significant concerns. Instead, it's about exploring how AI can be a tool for those who may face barriers to traditional writing, especially individuals with varying abilities. AI, as I've mentioned, can empower people to express themselves creatively and engage in writing as a form of recreation. We are humans, and we love a good time. lol.

The challenges faced by those in the entertainment industry are concerning and deserve attention and support. At the same time, it's essential to continue conversations about AI in a broader context, addressing both the potential benefits and the need for responsible and ethical AI integration.

I appreciate your perspective, and the opportunity to engage in this dialogue, recognizing that different viewpoints contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of these complex issues.

In other words, I know that these things can be emotionally charged topics, and want to point out that I hear you, even if I may disagree.

Thank you, again, for adding your perspective to the conversation.

[Lan Nakajima]

Embracing AI in Writing: An Inclusive Perspective

In a world increasingly driven by technological advancements, the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing various aspects of our lives. Writing is no exception, and for individuals with varying disabilities like myself, AI serves as a valuable tool that enhances our ability to communicate and share our thoughts. However, recent discussions have revealed a concerning trend of elitism and ableism surrounding the use of AI in writing, which warrants a thoughtful response.
A recent article titled “The ethical use of AI in writing: it’s a tool, not a threat” by Jim the AI Whisperer (published by The Generator), dives into this subject, providing valuable insights into the debate. One cannot ignore disheartening comments and opinions that have surfaced in the discourse (as Jim shares), such as “Any real writer who is relying heavily on AI should be ashamed of themselves.” And “I don’t want to read iit, it’s cheating. A good writer doesn’t need it.” The remarks ranging from shame to accusations of cheating, reflect a damaging perspective. They inadvertently contribute to an atmosphere of exclusion, effectively saying that only those who conform to a particular standard of writing are worthy of being heard. This is both elitist and ableist thinking, as it fails to recognize diverse needs and abilities of writers.
As a writer who faces the daily challenge of aphasia, cognitive issues, post-viral fatigue, chronic pain, and severe depression, AI tools have become indispensible in my writing journey. Trauma, and multiple traumatic brain injuries have left me with a cognitive landscape that can be as unpredictable as it is challenging. In my quest to find my creative voice again, AI tools have been my reliable companions. They help me bridge the gap between my thoughts and the written word, allowing me to share my stories with readers and peers.
There are many people who hypothesize that AI will replace human writers altogether, and that people will simply stop writing. There were those who said the same thing about the use of the internet for researching, instead of opening up an old musty book to help write a paper, for example. The idea that AI is a replacement for genuine writing is a misconception. AI is more like, as Jim said, “Commander Data to my Picard”–it offers assistance, not replacement. It helps me refine my ideas, ensuring that they are accessible and meaningful to a broader audience. I recognize that reading can be a challenging task for many individuals. AI helps me to make it a smoother experience for those reading as well.
AI is actually a liberator of the written word, offering resources equivalent to an editorial team. When used correctly, it enhances our writing while preserving our individual voices. The key is to employ AI ethically and creatively, in a way that promotes transparency and inclusivity. What matters is that the writing is good. By embracing AI, we can broaden the narrative space for voices that might otherwise be silenced. Instead of framing AI as a threat, or using it to shame others from sharing their words, we should view it as just another tool that empowers people to express themselves. It enables us to overcome obstacles we may be facing, and to continue to share our unique perspectives.
The recent discussions about AI in writing, particularly those that exhibit elitism and ableism, should remind us of the importance of inclusivity and respect for individual voices. In a world that allegedly values diversity, we must celebrate the myriad ways that AI supports writers with disabilities, and writers of all abilities, allowing us to shine in our own light. Writing isn’t a competition, and we’re not doing this for a grade; this is a means of expression, and AI is actually here to help us reach our fullest potential. By dispelling myths, addressing concerns, and embracing AI as a collaborative partner in our creative journeys, we ensure that the world of writing remains open and inclusive for everyone.


Citation

Jim the AI Whisperer. “The ethical use of AI in writing: it’s a tool, not a threat.” The Generator, 12 July 2023,

(And yes, I used AI to help me write this).


Here are a list of some other articles that may be worth reading, if it interests anyone:



https://www.bestcolleges.com/news/analy ... %20process

https://www.thecreativepenn.com/2023/08 ... j-pajonas/

I think the general consensus is that if you're using it for personal use, such as smoothing words together so they look pretty (I do this sometimes) it's fine. If you're using it to write your own take on the works of Shakespeare to make I to a movie, maybe not so ethical. There are a LOT of reasons for and against using it, but as an aid, sure. As a sole generator, maybe not.

[Lan Nakajima]

I think what's most problematic is something we see in Furry a lot. You have people generating "art" which is just kitbashed together art from other people. I certainly don't have the skill to draw something striking but when you generate AI art it's just building on other people's work. It really is an ethical dilemma that we're all going to have to deal with moving into the future.

[Adaminia Resident]

I am not going to take a side as to what to do with AI from an ethical standpoint just yet, primarily because I recognize it's still a very new thing, and I approach ethics from the strategy of being careful and thorough about what I'm dealing with before casting judgment.

What I can say with certainty, however... is that there is no way to stop it, unless you find some way to stop people from developing AI entirely.

To express it laconically, we have no choice but to learn to accept it's existence gracefully, whether we like it or not, support it or not, we simply cannot avoid it's existence now, so we can either learn how to absorb it harmoniously into our way of life, or we go to war against it. I'm sure we will have the inevitable mix of opinions on which strategy is best, and everywhere in between the two extremes.

What's more, is that AI is not only just here to stay, but it's evolving, and the implications are MUCH scarier than just a case of displaced jobs. There are many political ramifications, military ramifications, public safety, economic, etc. Our entire lives as human beings, as we know it, are going to have to change to adapt to the presence of AI.

As for assisting with writing, I know that there's some consequences to professional writers, which is an unfortunate turn of events, now that the demand for writers has essentially been slashed, and it couldn't come at a worse time...

However I can also see how it can help a lot of people and businesses that have a need for the ability to write a lot of mundane things and need help with it. It's good in terms of assisting with people who can't write as well (for example, Grammarly is an AI based system), and with people who have a LOT of things to write that are necessary to write, but mostly mundane things that basically amount to just busy work.

To conclude, as with all evolution, it has good and bad ramifications, and as with all evolution, it's scary as f***. Nothing is certain, and everything is changing. It will certainly test us. It's important to try to remember to look for the silver lining.

But as for if we should allow it to be used? Again, and I can't emphasize this enough... There is absolutely no way you can prevent it from being used. AI detectors, and AI prevention methods are unreliable now, and even when they finally do become effective, they will be surpassed as the next generation of AI evolves to take over. It will forever be an arms race.

It is best to learn how to live with it, accept that it's here to stay, gracefully, and move on. That's really the only endgame available to us from here-on out.

(This message was 100% human written.)

With respect and in service,

[Brightazuresky Resident]

I think there is a difference between using an AI for minor fact or verbal checking and using said AI to do all of the research for an academic paper or to write a complete work of literature.

Regarding the latter, some might make the comparison between this and using a ghost writer. Honestly, I find the use of a ghost writer objectionable. If someone has done the work, then their name should be on the cover. So, if academic and creative writers wish to use AI to do research and add verbal flourish, then they should include AI42 on the cover of the paper or book.

[Susie657 Resident]

AI is not going anywhere, and as Ady has said I think we just need to accept that, decide how that affects us, how that helps us, and move on.

I think when using AI-generated content, it would be really neat to credit it transparently and appropriately, just as someone would with ghost-written articles as Brightazuresky said above. We should aim to credit AI when it significantly contributes to the content, such as generating entire articles, Academy course content, speeches, or key insights.

Something like “Portions of this article/course were generated with the assistance of [AI Tool Name].”

Or, by acknowledging collaboration, emphasising the writer’s role in refining and/or contextualising the content. Something like “This article was created in collaboration between the [author's name(s)] and [AI Tool Name].”