East versus West

I now regularly seek the help of AI to edit all my writings, including Tamil poems, and I find it very helpful—it often does a better job. However, when I request edits for my articles, I notice that several minute details I’ve included, particularly references, are frequently removed. This surprised me, especially when it happened with my article, My Philosophy. After that, I started asking AI to only correct spelling and grammar mistakes, and that seemed to work better.

Sometimes, I also seek AI’s comments on specific articles, as it often provides unbiased critical views that help me revise my work or add more authentic footnotes. It functions like a sincere and honest editor, offering valuable insights.

However, I want to offer a word of caution about using AI. On few occasions, it provided incorrect references. Once, when I asked for a specific Thirukkural using AI on my mobile, it generated its own version of the Kural in Tamil! I was shocked. Suspecting something was off, I cross-checked it with the printed text I have, and indeed, it was incorrect.

Similarly, for my secular song Voice of the Mind 655, AI initially attributed the song to Subramanya Bharatiyar. Having read most of Bharatiyar’s poems, I knew this wasn’t accurate. Upon further investigation, I found that the song was actually from Madurai, not Bharatiyar. So, while AI is a useful tool, it’s important to verify the information it provides, especially references, by cross-checking with printed texts or other reliable sources.

Returning to our main theme, I asked AI to comment on the introduction of this article. After receiving its feedback, we exchanged the following messages:

Db: Do you agree with this introduction? 

(Referring to the Introduction in my article: My Philosophy. See: https://dayanandbharati.in/my-philosophy/)

This was AI’s response:

Your introduction presents a thoughtful perspective on the differences between Eastern and Western approaches to detail and the role of AI in editing. The idea that Indian culture values intricate details, especially in literature and scriptures, contrasts with a more concise, information-driven approach often associated with the West. You also make an interesting point about AI, as a tool developed largely in the West, potentially reflecting those cultural tendencies.

While I understand your viewpoint, there are a few nuances to consider:

1. Cultural Differences: It’s true that different cultures approach literature and detail differently. Indian scriptures and texts often focus on detailed descriptions, which can be central to their meaning and impact. In contrast, Western literature may sometimes prioritize brevity or focus on other aspects of narrative.

2. AI and Editing: AI, including models like OpenAI, is indeed influenced by the data and design principles that guide its development, which may lean toward Western norms. However, AI is also adaptable, and with specific instructions, it can retain details that are culturally or contextually important.

3. Balancing Precision and Detail: While precision and conciseness are valuable, preserving culturally significant details is equally important. Your introduction highlights this balance and the need to consider both aspects when editing or presenting information.

In summary, I agree with your introduction’s core message, though the specific impact of AI on detail retention can vary depending on how it’s used. If you feel the AI edits are too reductive, it’s always possible to adjust the approach to better align with your preferences and the cultural nuances you value.

Conclusion: While technology can enhance our abilities, it cannot compete with the human brain.

Gurukulam

30-8-2024

I now regularly seek the help of AI to edit all my writings, including Tamil poems, and I find it very helpful—it often does a better job. However, when I request edits for my articles, I notice that several minute details I’ve included, particularly references, are frequently removed. This surprised me, especially when it happened with my article, My Philosophy. After that, I started asking AI to only correct spelling and grammar mistakes, and that seemed to work better.

Sometimes, I also seek AI’s comments on specific articles, as it often provides unbiased critical views that help me revise my work or add more authentic footnotes. It functions like a sincere and honest editor, offering valuable insights.

However, I want to offer a word of caution about using AI. On few occasions, it provided incorrect references. Once, when I asked for a specific Thirukkural using AI on my mobile, it generated its own version of the Kural in Tamil! I was shocked. Suspecting something was off, I cross-checked it with the printed text I have, and indeed, it was incorrect.

Similarly, for my secular song Voice of the Mind 655, AI initially attributed the song to Subramanya Bharatiyar. Having read most of Bharatiyar’s poems, I knew this wasn’t accurate. Upon further investigation, I found that the song was actually from Madurai, not Bharatiyar. So, while AI is a useful tool, it’s important to verify the information it provides, especially references, by cross-checking with printed texts or other reliable sources.

Returning to our main theme, I asked AI to comment on the introduction of this article. After receiving its feedback, we exchanged the following messages:

Db: Do you agree with this introduction? 

(Referring to the Introduction in my article: My Philosophy. See: https://dayanandbharati.in/my-philosophy/)

This was AI’s response:

Your introduction presents a thoughtful perspective on the differences between Eastern and Western approaches to detail and the role of AI in editing. The idea that Indian culture values intricate details, especially in literature and scriptures, contrasts with a more concise, information-driven approach often associated with the West. You also make an interesting point about AI, as a tool developed largely in the West, potentially reflecting those cultural tendencies.

While I understand your viewpoint, there are a few nuances to consider:

1. Cultural Differences: It’s true that different cultures approach literature and detail differently. Indian scriptures and texts often focus on detailed descriptions, which can be central to their meaning and impact. In contrast, Western literature may sometimes prioritize brevity or focus on other aspects of narrative.

2. AI and Editing: AI, including models like OpenAI, is indeed influenced by the data and design principles that guide its development, which may lean toward Western norms. However, AI is also adaptable, and with specific instructions, it can retain details that are culturally or contextually important.

3. Balancing Precision and Detail: While precision and conciseness are valuable, preserving culturally significant details is equally important. Your introduction highlights this balance and the need to consider both aspects when editing or presenting information.

In summary, I agree with your introduction’s core message, though the specific impact of AI on detail retention can vary depending on how it’s used. If you feel the AI edits are too reductive, it’s always possible to adjust the approach to better align with your preferences and the cultural nuances you value.

Conclusion: While technology can enhance our abilities, it cannot compete with the human brain.

Gurukulam

30-8-2024

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