The Rise of the AI Artists
Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used in science and technology. But can it actually be creative?
The creative leap
In previous posts, we have considered artificial intelligence/machine learning in a few different contexts (genetic enhancement, mental health, and ‘doing’ science).
And while the potential of AI is huge in each of these fields, a lot of people would still argue — perhaps rightfully so — that it’s about data handling and pattern recognition. We might even attribute AI with inference capacities and principle derivation if we’re feeling generous.
Somehow, it still doesn't feel creative, does it? In time, AI/machine learning might explore our genes, support our mental health, and even do self-guided experiments, but it’s not really creative or artistic when it does so, right? (Although one might argue that good experimental design requires more than a modicum of creativity.)
What is creativity anyway?
Let’s see what the Cambridge English Dictionary says:
The ability to produce or use original and unusual ideas
So, come up with something new, or use something already known in a new way (a strong indication that…
