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AI AI: Large Language Models ChatGPT Law

Legal Hallucinations

Today’s New York Times has a story written by Benjamin Weiser which seems somehow indicative of our times – a lawyer who used ChatGPT to help write his legal brief has been found out by opposing counsel and the judge hearing his case.

There was just one hitch: No one — not the airline’s lawyers, not even the judge himself — could find the decisions or the quotations cited and summarized in the brief.

That was because ChatGPT had invented everything.

New York Times, “Here’s What Happens When Your Lawyer Uses ChatGPT” – published May 27, 2023

Oops. I suspect there may be an unfortunate response by the courts – please certify your authorship of legal briefs and that you did not use AI-based tools to assist in preparing the brief.

Here’s perhaps an appropriate haiku generated by Google Bard:

The pen scratches paper

The words flow like a river of truth

The judge will decide.

Indeed. The judge will decide…

Judge Castel said in an order that he had been presented with “an unprecedented circumstance,” a legal submission replete with “bogus judicial decisions, with bogus quotes and bogus internal citations.” He ordered a hearing for June 8 to discuss potential sanctions.

New York Times, “Here’s What Happens When Your Lawyer Uses ChatGPT” – published May 27, 2023
Categories
AI iPhone 14 Pro Max Photography Photoshop CC

First try with Photoshop’s new Generative Fill

Earlier today Adobe announced a beta of Photoshop which added an AI-based generative fill capability powered by Adobe Firefly. I have been playing a bit with Firefly to generate images but this new capability integrated into Photoshop is quite remarkable.

On my morning walk this morning, I snapped this photo of Sharon Park in Menlo Park, California. I liked how the sun was breaking out of the morning marine layer and creating some interesting light.

I wished I had taken the image in a 16:9 format so that it was wider – so I brought it into the new Photoshop beta and began using generative fill to enhance the image. Specifically, I added four generative layers which took me about 5 minutes to do (most of that time was me thinking about what I wanted to change!):

  • Used the crop tool to extend the border of the image to the left – widening the image.
  • Selected the sidewalk asphalt pavement and replaced it with cobblestone.
  • Removed the other pavement in the far right of the image and replaced it with lawn.
  • Added some ducks and ducklings to the pond.

Here’s the result:

A very pleasing result! The image is far from perfect but it’s much more visually interesting that the original right out of my iPhone this morning!

I’m looking forward to exploring more of the capabilities of this generative fill feature and look forward to seeing how Adobe continues to evolve it going forward!

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AI AI: Large Language Models ChatGPT Google Google Bard

Looking forward to Project Tailwind…

This week at Google IO, one of the projects covered was a new experimental one called Project Tailwind – see how Steven Johnson covered it on his Substack after the event. He’s been working part-time with Google on this project which he describes Tailwind this way:

Tailwind allows you to define a set of documents as trusted sources which the AI then uses as a kind of ground truth, shaping all of the model’s interactions with you. In the use case shown on the I/O stage, the sources are class notes, but it could be other types of sources as well, such as your research materials for a book or blog post. The idea here is to craft a role for the LLM that is not an all-knowing oracle or your new virtual buddy, but something closer to an efficient research assistant, helping you explore the information that matters most to you. 

Google’s one line description is: “Tailwind is your AI-first notebook, grounded in the information you choose and trust.”

While working with the existing chatbots (ChatGPT, Google Bard, Microsoft Bing, etc.) is fun and useful, I’d be much happier having a research assistant which would primarily function on content I’ve created with an option to go beyond my content to the wider world. Johnson says he has “found that Tailwind works extremely well as an extension of my memory.”

Google’s initial implementation of Tailwind is based upon files in your Google Drive. For privacy reasons particularly, I’d especially welcome such a feature being trained and used locally on my own computer rather than having to upload my content to Google Drive and a cloud trainer.

I’ve requested access to Project Tailwind and look forward to experimenting with it when it’s made available. Meanwhile, here’s a short video that discusses Tailwind:

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AI AI: Large Language Models ChatGPT Prompt Engineering

Using ChatGPT to hold a debate…and learn

Robert Scoble tweeted yesterday about a series of ChatGPT prompts that he’s found very useful:

This is my favorite prompt. Do you have better for learning?

Multi step prompt.

1. Ask it to tell you all points of view on something or someone or anything. Photography, for instance.

2. Ask it to create a persona for each point.

3. Tell it to gather the persona’s all together into a group. Could be a debate club, a panel, a board of directors, or whatever you want.

4. Ask the group to debate the topic. Or anything but you will have a specific group around a committee.

A contextual committee. I am building many for different purposes.

A group focused around BBQ can answer food questions with that bias. … A committee for every context. Or problem. Or to teach you. Coach you. Assist you.

Contextual committees. Infinite fun.

I was intrigued – adding his suggestions for prompts to my growing collection of prompts. Here’s what I tried first:

Tell me all the points of view on the topic of beach reads.

The concept of “beach reads” refers to books that are typically read for pleasure during the summer or on vacation, often in a relaxing setting like the beach. There are various points of view on this topic, including:

  • Proponents of beach reads argue that they provide an enjoyable and lighthearted reading experience that is perfect for vacations or other leisure time. They believe that reading should be a pleasurable activity, and that beach reads offer a fun and engaging way to pass the time.
  • Critics of beach reads argue that they are often formulaic, poorly written, and lack substance. They believe that reading should be an intellectually stimulating activity, and that beach reads offer little in the way of challenging ideas or insights.
  • Some people believe that the concept of beach reads is outdated and that people should be free to read whatever they want, regardless of the season or location. They argue that the idea of categorizing books as “beach reads” is limiting and can prevent readers from exploring new genres or authors.
  • Others believe that the term “beach reads” is sexist and reinforces gender stereotypes, suggesting that women only read light and fluffy books while men prefer more serious and intellectual fare. They argue that this is a harmful and inaccurate portrayal of both genders and that readers should be encouraged to read whatever interests them, regardless of gender or perceived genre.
  • Finally, some people argue that the concept of beach reads is simply a marketing ploy, designed to sell more books during the summer months. They believe that the publishing industry has created the idea of beach reads to promote certain types of books and authors, rather than letting readers decide for themselves what they want to read.

Create a persona for each point of view.

Sure, here are five personas representing each of the five points of view on beach reads, debating the topic and coming to a joint recommendation:

  • Proponent of beach reads: Sarah is a young professional who loves to read for pleasure, especially when she goes on vacation. She believes that beach reads are a great way to relax and escape from the stress of everyday life. Sarah argues that reading should be a pleasurable activity, and that beach reads offer a fun and engaging way to pass the time.
  • Critic of beach reads: David is a literature professor who believes that reading should be an intellectually stimulating activity. He is skeptical of the concept of beach reads, arguing that they are often formulaic, poorly written, and lack substance. He believes that readers should be challenged by the books they read, rather than simply entertained.
  • Advocate of reading freedom: Maria is a librarian who believes that people should be free to read whatever they want, regardless of the season or location. She thinks that the idea of categorizing books as “beach reads” is limiting and can prevent readers from exploring new genres or authors. Maria believes that readers should be encouraged to read widely and follow their own interests.
  • Critic of gender stereotypes: Alex is a gender studies professor who believes that the term “beach reads” is sexist and reinforces harmful gender stereotypes. She argues that this idea suggests that women only read light and fluffy books while men prefer more serious and intellectual fare. Alex believes that readers should be encouraged to read whatever interests them, regardless of their gender or perceived genre.
  • Critic of marketing ploys: Chris is a publishing industry insider who believes that the concept of beach reads is simply a marketing ploy. He argues that the publishing industry has created the idea of beach reads to promote certain types of books and authors, rather than letting readers decide for themselves what they want to read.

Have them debate beach reads and come to a joint recommendation for readers

Sarah: I love beach reads! They’re a great way to relax and escape from the stress of everyday life.

David: I don’t agree. Beach reads are often poorly written and lack substance. Reading should be an intellectually stimulating activity.

Maria: I think people should be free to read whatever they want, regardless of the season or location. The idea of categorizing books as “beach reads” is limiting.

Alex: I agree that the term “beach reads” is sexist and reinforces gender stereotypes. It suggests that women only read light and fluffy books while men prefer more serious and intellectual fare.

Chris: I think the concept of beach reads is simply a marketing ploy. The publishing industry has created the idea to promote certain types of books and authors.

Sarah: I understand that some beach reads may not be the most intellectually challenging, but they offer a fun and engaging way to pass the time. And as Maria said, people should be free to read whatever they want.

David: I agree that people should be free to read what they want, but I still believe that reading should be a challenging activity. However, there are some beach reads that can be intellectually stimulating.

Maria: Yes, readers should be encouraged to read widely and explore new genres and authors. But if someone wants to read a beach read, that’s fine too. Let’s recommend that readers choose books that they enjoy, whether they are beach reads or not.

Alex: I agree. Instead of limiting readers based on gender or perceived genre, let’s encourage them to read whatever interests them.

Chris: Sounds good to me. Let’s recommend that readers choose books based on their interests, rather than what’s marketed as a “beach read” or any other category. The most important thing is that people enjoy what they’re reading.

Sarah: Yes, it’s all about enjoying what you’re reading. For me, beach reads offer a chance to relax and escape into a fun story. And there are some beach reads that are well-written and have substance.

David: I agree that enjoyment is important, but I still think that readers should be challenged by what they’re reading. Perhaps we can recommend some beach reads that offer both entertainment and intellectual stimulation.

Maria: That’s a great idea, David. There are plenty of books that can be considered beach reads but still have substance. Maybe we could recommend some titles that fit that description?

Alex: I like that approach. Let’s make sure our recommendations are diverse and inclusive, so that readers of all genders and backgrounds can find something they enjoy.

Chris: Absolutely. And let’s be honest about the marketing behind the concept of beach reads. While it’s true that some books may be marketed as “beach reads,” that doesn’t mean they can’t be good books. Let’s focus on the quality of the writing and the story, rather than the marketing.

Sarah: I agree. Let’s recommend books that are enjoyable, diverse, and well-written, regardless of whether they are marketed as “beach reads” or not.

David: Agreed. And let’s also encourage readers to challenge themselves by trying new genres and authors, even if they don’t fit into the traditional “beach read” category.

Maria: Yes, and let’s not forget that reading is a personal activity. What one person considers a beach read may be different from someone else’s definition. It’s all about finding what you enjoy.

Alex: Absolutely. Let’s encourage readers to find books that resonate with them, regardless of any marketing labels. Reading is about personal enjoyment and growth, and that should always be our focus.

Chris: I couldn’t agree more. Let’s recommend books that offer both enjoyment and growth, and encourage readers to explore new genres and authors. With that approach, everyone can find their perfect beach read, no matter what that means to them.


Have each recommend their favorite beach read.

Sarah: My favorite beach read is “The Kiss Quotient” by Helen Hoang. It’s a romance novel with a unique premise and diverse characters that I found both entertaining and meaningful.

David: I recommend “The Martian” by Andy Weir. It’s a science fiction novel that’s both entertaining and intellectually stimulating. The main character’s struggle for survival on Mars is both thrilling and thought-provoking.

Maria: My favorite beach read is “The Joy Luck Club” by Amy Tan. It’s a literary novel that explores the relationships between mothers and daughters, and the challenges of immigrant families in America. It’s a beautifully written book that’s both engaging and thought-provoking.

Alex: I recommend “The Nightingale” by Kristin Hannah. It’s a historical fiction novel that explores the experiences of two sisters in France during World War II. The story is both heartbreaking and inspiring, and the characters are complex and relatable.

Chris: My favorite beach read is “Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman. It’s a contemporary fiction novel that follows the life of a socially awkward woman who learns to connect with others and find happiness. It’s both heartwarming and humorous, and the writing is top-notch.

Sarah: Another great beach read I recommend is “The Unhoneymooners” by Christina Lauren. It’s a romantic comedy that’s perfect for a beach day, with fun banter and an enemies-to-lovers plot that will keep you entertained.

David: For a more challenging beach read, I recommend “Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind” by Yuval Noah Harari. It’s a nonfiction book that explores the history of human civilization and the future of our species. It’s thought-provoking and informative, but still accessible to general readers.

Maria: Another beach read I recommend is “Little Fires Everywhere” by Celeste Ng. It’s a literary novel that explores the complexities of family relationships and the impact of social status. The characters are well-developed and the writing is beautiful.

Alex: For a light but meaningful beach read, I recommend “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho. It’s a philosophical novel that follows a young shepherd boy on a journey to fulfill his dreams. The themes of self-discovery and personal growth make it a perfect beach read.

Chris: Another great beach read I recommend is “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid. It’s a historical fiction novel that explores the life of a Hollywood actress and the secrets she kept. The story is engaging and the characters are well-drawn, making it a perfect beach read for fans of character-driven fiction.

Good fun! – and a new way to explore a topic from multiple points of view using ChatGPT or Google Bard.

Categories
AI AI: Large Language Models ChatGPT Prompt Engineering

Ten Ways Anything Can Be Different in the Future

In the book Imaginable, author Jane McGonical had a description of how to pick an idea and explore it – by asking what’s true about it today, what might not be true about it in the future, and what are some clues or evidence of change that these ideas are plausible and realistic.

More specifically here’s what she wrote:

It’s called One Hundred Ways Anything Can Be Different in the Future. Here’s how it works: First, you pick a topic, like work, or food, or learning. Then you list one hundred things that are true about it today. The simpler or more obvious the fact, the better. Next, you rewrite each fact, one by one, so that ten years from now the opposite is true—no matter how ridiculous, at first, the new ideas sound. Finally, you look for clues, or evidence of change already happening today, that these ideas are plausible and realistic.

Imaginable by Jane McGonical

It dawned on me that this might be a fun example to explore in ChatGPT – and it was! My chat session follows below – it’s very exciting to use this tool for this kind of assistance in thinking!

Scott: This series of prompts is called 10 Ways Anything Can Be Different In the Future.

Great! I’m ready to help you explore different possibilities for the future. What topic would you like to explore?

Scott: Learning

Excellent choice! Let’s explore 10 ways learning could be different in the future:

  1. Personalized learning: In the future, personalized learning could become the norm. With advances in technology, AI could create personalized learning plans for each individual, taking into account their learning style, preferences, and strengths.
  2. Virtual and augmented reality: Virtual and augmented reality could revolutionize the way we learn by providing immersive experiences that allow learners to interact with information in a more engaging and interactive way.
  3. Gamification: Learning could become more game-like and interactive, with gamification elements incorporated into educational content to make it more engaging and enjoyable.
  4. Lifelong learning: In the future, learning could become a lifelong pursuit rather than something that only happens during the early years of life. Continuous education and upskilling could become the norm to keep up with the rapid pace of technological change.
  5. AI-powered tutoring: AI-powered tutoring could become more advanced, allowing for more personalized and effective teaching. Chatbots and virtual tutors could provide real-time feedback and support to learners.
  6. Collaborative learning: Collaborative learning could become more prevalent in the future, with learners working together on projects and assignments in virtual environments.
  7. Microlearning: Microlearning, or learning in small, bite-sized chunks, could become more common in the future. This could allow learners to fit learning into their busy lives more easily.
  8. Brain-computer interfaces: With the development of brain-computer interfaces, learning could become even more efficient and effective. Learners could directly interface with computers to learn new information or skills.
  9. Global learning: In the future, the world could become more interconnected, allowing for more opportunities for global learning. Learners could connect with others from different parts of the world to share knowledge and experiences.
  10. Biologically enhanced learning: With advances in biotechnology, it could be possible to enhance learning by manipulating brain chemistry or using gene editing to optimize cognitive functions.

These are just a few possibilities for how learning could be different in the future. The future of learning is exciting and full of potential!

Scott: For each of those 10 ways, now rewrite each making the opposite true.

Sure, here are 10 ways learning could be different in the opposite direction:

  1. Uniform learning: In the opposite future, there would be a standardized approach to learning for everyone, where every individual is taught the same curriculum regardless of their learning style, preferences, or strengths.
  2. Minimal use of technology: In this future, technology will play a minimal role in learning, and virtual and augmented reality will not be utilized for educational purposes.
  3. No gamification: The opposite future would not incorporate gamification elements into educational content. Learning would be a serious endeavor without any interactive or engaging elements.
  4. Limited learning opportunities: Learning would be limited to certain stages of life, and continuous education or upskilling would not be a priority. Individuals would be expected to learn everything they need to know during their school years.
  5. No AI-powered tutoring: The opposite future would not make use of AI-powered tutoring. Instead, learners would rely on traditional teaching methods with limited feedback and support.
  6. Individual learning: In this future, learners would not work together in virtual environments. Instead, individuals would learn independently, without any collaborative or interactive elements.
  7. No microlearning: Learning would not be delivered in bite-sized chunks in the opposite future. Instead, individuals would be expected to learn everything at once, without the option of fitting learning into their busy lives.
  8. No brain-computer interfaces: In the opposite future, there would be no brain-computer interfaces, and individuals would not be able to directly interface with computers to learn new information or skills.
  9. Limited global learning: In this future, there would be limited opportunities for global learning, and individuals would not be able to connect with others from different parts of the world to share knowledge and experiences.
  10. No biologically enhanced learning: In the opposite future, there would be no biotechnology advancements used to enhance learning. Individuals would have to rely on their natural cognitive abilities to learn.

Scott: Now let’s examine clues or evidence of change already happening today that these ideas are plausible and realistic.

Certainly! Here are some clues or evidence of change happening today that support the plausibility and realism of the ideas I presented earlier:

  1. Personalized learning: Personalized learning is already gaining traction in various fields such as medicine and marketing. Technology is now being developed to provide personalized learning plans to individuals, which can be adapted to their learning style, preferences, and strengths.
  2. Virtual and augmented reality: Virtual and augmented reality is already being used in various industries such as entertainment and gaming, and it is only a matter of time before it becomes more common in the educational industry.
  3. Gamification: Gamification has already been successfully incorporated into educational content to make it more engaging and enjoyable. Game-based learning is becoming more prevalent in schools and universities.
  4. Lifelong learning: Continuous education and upskilling are already becoming more important in today’s fast-paced and ever-changing world. Many companies and organizations are offering training and education programs for their employees to keep up with the latest trends and advancements.
  5. AI-powered tutoring: AI-powered tutoring is already being used in various educational contexts, such as language learning apps, where virtual tutors provide real-time feedback and support to learners.
  6. Collaborative learning: Collaborative learning is already being used in various educational settings, where learners work together on group projects and assignments.
  7. Microlearning: Microlearning is already being utilized in various industries, such as professional development and corporate training. Many companies offer microlearning modules to their employees to fit learning into their busy schedules.
  8. Brain-computer interfaces: Brain-computer interfaces are already being used in research, and they have shown promising results in enhancing cognitive functions such as memory and learning.
  9. Global learning: Global learning is already happening today, with online courses and virtual exchange programs connecting learners from different parts of the world.
  10. Biologically enhanced learning: Biotechnology advancements are already being used to treat various neurological and cognitive disorders, and it is only a matter of time before they are used to enhance learning as well.

These are just a few examples of the many clues and evidence of change already happening today that support the plausibility and realism of the ideas presented earlier. The future of learning is exciting and full of potential, and we are already seeing many of these changes happening today.

SJL+ChatGPT – May 4, 2023

After writing this post, I came across this article by Connie Chan at A16Z: Embracing the Future: How Chatbots Can Become Great Companions. In a way, that’s how I’ve been using both ChatGPT and Google Bard. Not as search engines to find other websites but, rather, as a thinking companion to explore ideas, learn more about historical topics, etc.

She writes:

Today’s AI chatbots are able to invoke emotions and provide companionship by asking us probing questions that go deeper into our psyche than chatbots of the past. (In fact, some are finding that these chatbots are better at providing companionship than providing facts.) By pulling information out of us, like therapists, and then having perfect recall of every detail we’ve ever told it, these companion chatbots can pattern match our behavior—and ultimately help us understand ourselves better.

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AI AI: Large Language Models ChatGPT Google Bard Sensemaking

Probing Questions

I noticed a tweet from @dreetje earlier in the week suggesting some prompts to use with ChatGPT to prompt some additional insights into a particular topic. With slight modification, I gave it a try on Google Bard – asking it to help me with some additional insights into the subject of the future of work in the context of large language models.

Google Bard responded below to my initial prompt telling it that was the subject I wanted to discuss. Interesting how it set the stage for further discussion:

Large language models (LLMs) are a type of artificial intelligence (AI) that are trained on massive amounts of text data. This allows them to generate text, translate languages, write different kinds of creative content, and answer your questions in an informative way. As LLMs become more sophisticated, they are likely to have a significant impact on the future of work.

One of the most significant impacts of LLMs is likely to be on the automation of jobs. LLMs can already perform many tasks that are currently done by humans, such as writing reports, translating documents, and answering customer service questions. As LLMs become more powerful, they are likely to be able to automate even more tasks. This could lead to widespread job losses in some industries, such as customer service, data entry, and writing.

However, LLMs are also likely to create new jobs. For example, LLMs will need to be developed, trained, and maintained. This will create jobs for AI engineers, data scientists, and machine learning experts. In addition, LLMs will be used in new and innovative ways, which will create new jobs in a variety of industries.

Overall, the impact of LLMs on the future of work is likely to be mixed. Some jobs will be lost, but new jobs will also be created. It is important to start thinking about how to prepare for the changes that LLMs are likely to bring.

Here are some things that individuals and businesses can do to prepare for the future of work in the context of LLMs:

  • Develop new skills. As LLMs automate more tasks, it is important to develop new skills that cannot be easily automated. These skills could include critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving.
  • Become more adaptable. The pace of technological change is accelerating, so it is important to be adaptable and willing to learn new things. This will help you to stay ahead of the curve and find new opportunities in the changing job market.
  • Collaborate with LLMs. LLMs are powerful tools that can be used to improve productivity and efficiency. Rather than seeing LLMs as a threat, businesses should embrace them and use them to their advantage.

The future of work is uncertain, but it is clear that LLMs are going to have a significant impact. By preparing for the changes that LLMs are likely to bring, individuals and businesses can position themselves for success in the years to come.

I then used this prompt to elicit some additional insights:

For that topic, start by thinking to yourself about the following questions and answer them for the given text, and the other answers:

  1. This reminds me of …
  2. This is part of …
  3. This is similar to 1 because …
  4. This is different from 1 because …
  5. This is important because …
  6. This came from .. (which ideology, origin of this idea in general)
  7. This is really about …

Google Bard replied (third draft):

Sure, I can do that. Here are my answers to your questions:

  1. This reminds me of the Industrial Revolution. The Industrial Revolution was a period of great technological change that led to the automation of many tasks that were previously done by hand. This led to widespread job losses in some industries, but it also created new jobs in other industries. LLMs are likely to have a similar impact on the future of work.
  2. This is part of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The Fourth Industrial Revolution is a period of technological change that is characterized by the development of artificial intelligence, robotics, and other new technologies. These technologies are likely to have a profound impact on the future of work, as they automate more and more tasks.
  3. This is similar to the Industrial Revolution because both periods of technological change led to the automation of tasks and the creation of new jobs. However, the Fourth Industrial Revolution is likely to have an even greater impact on the future of work, as the technologies involved are more powerful and sophisticated.
  4. This is different from the Industrial Revolution because the Fourth Industrial Revolution is happening at a much faster pace. This means that workers will have less time to adapt to the changes, and it could lead to more widespread job losses.
  5. This is important because it has the potential to change the way we work. LLMs could automate many tasks that are currently done by humans, which could lead to widespread job losses. However, LLMs could also create new jobs, and they could help us to be more productive and efficient.
  6. This came from the idea that technology can be used to improve our lives. The Industrial Revolution was driven by the idea that machines could do work more efficiently than humans. The Fourth Industrial Revolution is driven by the idea that artificial intelligence can be used to solve problems that were previously thought to be impossible.
  7. This is really about the future of work. The Fourth Industrial Revolution is likely to have a profound impact on the way we work. LLMs are just one of the technologies that are likely to change the way we work. We need to start thinking about how we can prepare for these changes, and how we can ensure that everyone benefits from the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

Nick Milo uses these prompts during his sensemaking sessions as part of what he teaches called Linking Your Thinking. You capture a note on something that triggers your mind to want to explore it more. You might use these prompts to help you begin that exploration – and add your own insights to whatever you initially captured. Using Google Bard to help kickstart that process might help accelerate one’s thinking even more.

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AI AI: Large Language Models Google Bard San Francisco/California

Friday Follies

No, I didn’t have a blue checkmark on Twitter – so I didn’t lose anything when Elon decided to take them away from non-Blue users. Who wants to be a Blue user anyway?

Meanwhile, I’ve been having fun playing with Google Bard, using it much more than ChatGPT recently. This morning I got the weekly email from Santa Fe Photographic Workshops about their upcoming workshops. One of them caught my eye: Ax for the Frozen Sea: An Introduction to Creative Writing by Matthew Siegel.

The course description included the following:

We delve into texts related to craft and practice, as well as creative works, from authors including James Baldwin, Joan Didion, Marc Doty, Jhumpa Lahiri, Li-Young Lee, and Cheryl Strayed, among others.

That got me interested in seeing what Google Bard might educate me about these authors – so I asked Bard:

Let’s pretend I’m attending a writing workshop. The instructor suggests we delve into texts related to craft and practice, as well as creative works, from authors including James Baldwin, Joan Didion, Marc Doty, Jhumpa Lahiri, Li-Young Lee, and Cheryl Strayed, among others.

Bard came back immediately with this great reply:

That’s a great list of authors! Here are some of my favorite books by each of them:

  • James Baldwin: “Go Tell It on the Mountain,” “Another Country,” “The Fire Next Time”
  • Joan Didion: “The White Album,” “Slouching Towards Bethlehem,” “The Year of Magical Thinking”
  • Marc Doty: “My Alexandria,” “What Matters,” “Firebird”
  • Jhumpa Lahiri: “The Namesake,” “Interpreter of Maladies,” “The Lowland”
  • Li-Young Lee: “The City in Which I Love You,” “Rose,” “Behind My Eyes”
  • Cheryl Strayed: “Wild,” “Tiny Beautiful Things,” “Brave Enough”

These authors are all masters of their craft, and their work can teach you a lot about writing. They are also all very different writers, so you’re sure to find something you like in their work.

Here are some specific things you can learn from these authors:

  • James Baldwin: Baldwin was a master of the essay, and his work is full of insight and wisdom. He was also a gifted storyteller, and his novels are powerful and moving.
  • Joan Didion: Didion was a master of the observation, and her work is full of sharp insights into the human condition. She was also a gifted stylist, and her writing is clear, concise, and elegant.
  • Marc Doty: Doty is a master of the lyric poem, and his work is full of beauty and emotion. He is also a gifted storyteller, and his poems often have a narrative arc.
  • Jhumpa Lahiri: Lahiri is a master of the short story, and her work is full of insight and compassion. She is also a gifted stylist, and her stories are beautifully written.
  • Li-Young Lee: Lee is a master of the lyric poem, and his work is full of beauty and emotion. He is also a gifted storyteller, and his poems often have a spiritual dimension.
  • Cheryl Strayed: Strayed is a master of the memoir, and her work is full of honesty and courage. She is also a gifted storyteller, and her memoirs are both moving and inspiring.

I hope you enjoy reading these authors as much as I do!

Great stuff – thanks Bard! By the way, Bard provides three different draft answers. The first one was good but this one – the third – was much better. I’ve learned that it pays to look at the three drafts it provides – sometimes one stands out above the others.

Lots of fun continuing with Bard. Yesterday I got into a conversation with it about the Hungry i in San Francisco and another coffee house of that era called Coffee and Confusion. I also asked it to pretend it was the DJ Tom Donahue opening his evening show on KMPX in the late 1960’s. I asked it how it would open and what he would play:

Sure, I can do that. Here’s how I would open my evening show on KMPX in the late 1960s:

“Good evening, San Francisco! This is Tom Donahue, and you’re listening to the best rock and roll on the radio. Tonight, we’ve got a great show for you, with music from some of the biggest names in the business. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!”

  • plays “Light My Fire” by The Doors *

I would then go on to play a variety of other rock and roll songs, from the classics to the new releases. I would also take requests from listeners, and I would chat with them about the music and the latest news.

I would want my show to be a fun and informative experience for listeners. I would want them to hear great music, learn about new bands, and connect with other people who love rock and roll.

I would also want my show to be a reflection of the time period. The late 1960s was a time of great change and upheaval, and I would want my show to capture the spirit of the times. I would want to play music that reflected the hopes, dreams, and fears of young people at the time.

I hope you enjoy my show!

Then I asked it to generate a playlist for another 10 songs:

Sure, here is another 10-song playlist:

  1. “Hey Jude” by The Beatles
  2. “Respect” by Aretha Franklin
  3. “What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye
  4. “Imagine” by John Lennon
  5. “Born to Be Wild” by Steppenwolf
  6. “Light My Fire” by The Doors
  7. “Purple Haze” by Jimi Hendrix
  8. “Hey Joe” by The Jimi Hendrix Experience
  9. “Satisfaction” by The Rolling Stones
  10. “Good Vibrations” by The Beach Boys

These are just a few of my favorite songs from the 1960s. There are many other great songs from this era, so I encourage you to explore and find your own favorites.

Great stuff! Perhaps not better than talking to a friend – although I must say that Bard seems to have a much better memory than most of my friends – and much better than mine!

Categories
AI AI: Large Language Models ChatGPT Prompt Engineering

Prompt Engineering 101

With the evolution of these generative AI tools, there’s a new field of expertise that has emerged: prompt engineering. I thought it’d be useful for me to spend a bit of time diving into this field to see what I might learn. Where should I start? How about just asking ChatGPT for some help? – so that’s what I did:

I began by asking:

What’s the best strategy for developing skills in prompt engineering?

ChatGPT responded:

Prompt engineering is the process of creating effective prompts for AI language models to generate high-quality outputs. Here are some strategies you can use to develop your skills in prompt engineering:

  1. Practice: The best way to improve your prompt engineering skills is by practicing. Create prompts for different types of language models and see what kind of responses you get. Experiment with different wording, formatting, and other variables to see what works best.
  2. Study: Study the prompts used by other experts in the field. Analyze the structure and wording of their prompts, and try to understand why they are effective. This will help you to develop a better understanding of the nuances of prompt engineering.
  3. Learn about the model: Understanding the language model you are working with is crucial for prompt engineering. Learn about the architecture, the training data, and the limitations of the model. This will help you to create prompts that are better suited to the model’s capabilities.
  4. Focus on the task: When creating prompts, focus on the specific task you want the language model to perform. Be clear and concise about what you want the model to do, and structure your prompt accordingly.
  5. Test and iterate: Test your prompts with different language models, and see how they perform. Iterate on your prompts based on the results you get, and continue to refine your approach.

By practicing these strategies, you can improve your skills in prompt engineering and create more effective prompts for AI language models.

I continued:

Please provide a few examples of great prompts that we can study for learning.

ChatGPT:

Sure! Here are a few examples of great prompts that you can study for learning:

  1. GPT-3 for Creative Writing: “Write a short story about a woman who can talk to animals.” This prompt is specific, clear, and provides a clear direction for the AI language model to generate a creative story based on the given premise.
  2. T5 for Translation: “Translate the following sentence into Spanish: ‘I love to travel and try new foods.'” This prompt is clear and concise, specifying the task of translating a sentence from English to Spanish and providing the input text.
  3. GPT-2 for Chatbot: “You are a customer service representative for a bank. A customer calls to report a lost debit card. Write a response to the customer.” This prompt provides a clear context and task for the AI language model, allowing it to generate a realistic response as a customer service representative.
  4. GPT-3 for Question Answering: “What is the capital of Brazil?” This prompt is a simple and clear question, specifying the task of providing an answer to a specific question.

By studying these examples, you can learn how to create effective prompts for AI language models and improve your skills in prompt engineering.

I continued:

Provide five more examples.

ChatGPT:

Sure, here are five more examples of great prompts:

  1. GPT-3 for Content Creation: “Write an informative article about the benefits of meditation.” This prompt is specific and clear, providing a clear direction for the AI language model to generate a informative article on the given topic.
  2. T5 for Summarization: “Summarize the following article: ‘Study finds that drinking coffee reduces the risk of heart disease.'” This prompt is clear and concise, specifying the task of summarizing a given article and providing the input text.
  3. GPT-2 for Text Completion: “Complete the following sentence: ‘The best way to learn a new skill is…'”. This prompt is clear and concise, specifying the task of completing a sentence and providing the starting text.
  4. GPT-3 for Text Generation: “Write a poem about the beauty of nature.” This prompt is specific and clear, providing a clear direction for the AI language model to generate a poem based on the given theme.
  5. GPT-2 for Creative Writing: “Write a story about a detective who is trying to solve a murder case.” This prompt is specific and clear, providing a clear direction for the AI language model to generate a creative story based on the given premise.

By studying these examples, you can learn how to create effective prompts for a variety of tasks and improve your skills in prompt engineering.

I continued:

How about examples of longer more complex prompts?

ChatGPT:

Sure, here are some examples of longer, more complex prompts:

  1. GPT-3 for Language Modeling: “Given a list of ingredients, write a recipe for a vegan lasagna that serves six people. The recipe should be easy to follow and include instructions for preparing the ingredients, assembling the lasagna, and cooking it in the oven. Please also include suggestions for side dishes and serving ideas.”
  2. T5 for Question Answering: “Read the following passage about the history of the Industrial Revolution and answer the following questions in complete sentences. What were the main technological advancements of the Industrial Revolution? How did these advancements impact society at the time? What were some of the negative consequences of the Industrial Revolution?”
  3. GPT-2 for Creative Writing: “Write a short story about a time traveler who goes back in time to prevent a historical event from occurring. Describe the time traveler’s journey, the historical event, and the consequences of their actions.”
  4. GPT-3 for Text Generation: “Write a persuasive essay arguing that artificial intelligence will have a positive impact on society. The essay should include at least three reasons to support this argument, as well as counterarguments and rebuttals to potential criticisms of AI technology.”
  5. T5 for Text Classification: “Given a set of customer reviews for a restaurant, classify each review as positive, negative, or neutral. The reviews should be analyzed based on the tone, sentiment, and overall opinion expressed by the customer. Please provide a breakdown of the percentage of reviews in each category and identify any common themes or patterns that emerge.”

By studying these longer, more complex prompts, you can learn how to create prompts that are more detailed and nuanced, and better suited to complex tasks that require a higher level of language understanding.

I asked for some more examples…

ChatGPT:

Sure, here are some more examples of longer, complex prompts:

  1. GPT-3 for Language Modeling: “Write a short story about a group of astronauts who are stranded on a distant planet. The story should include descriptions of the planet’s landscape and environment, as well as the challenges that the astronauts face in their attempt to survive and find a way back to Earth.”
  2. T5 for Text Generation: “Write a research paper on the impact of social media on mental health. The paper should include a review of existing literature on the topic, as well as original research that examines the relationship between social media use and mental health outcomes. The paper should also discuss potential policy implications and recommendations for future research.”
  3. GPT-2 for Creative Writing: “Write a script for a short film about a young woman who is struggling to come to terms with her identity. The film should explore themes of identity, family, and self-discovery, and should feature a diverse cast of characters. The script should include dialogue, character descriptions, and stage directions.”
  4. T5 for Text Summarization: “Summarize a scientific article about the effects of climate change on ocean ecosystems. The summary should include key findings and conclusions from the article, as well as any recommendations for policy or further research.”
  5. GPT-3 for Text Classification: “Given a dataset of tweets about a controversial topic, classify each tweet as supportive, opposing, or neutral. The classification should take into account the tone and language used in each tweet, as well as any relevant hashtags or keywords. The results of the classification should be presented in a report that includes visualizations and insights about the distribution of tweets across categories.”

By studying these longer, more complex prompts, you can learn how to create prompts that are tailored to specific tasks and domains, and that require a higher degree of language comprehension and creativity.

Pretty cool – the teacher teaching me how to use the tool more effectively. Some of these prompts are quite interesting to explore. There are even more very interesting prompt examples in Impromptu, the new book by Reid Hoffman and GPT-4.


Update:

I asked ChatGPT to give me several examples of especially creative prompts I might try. Here’s what it offered:

Sure, here are some examples of especially creative prompts for ChatGPT:

  • “Tell me a story about a dragon who falls in love with a human”: This prompt could inspire ChatGPT to generate a creative and engaging story about a dragon who defies the odds and falls in love with a human.
  • “If you could travel anywhere in the universe, where would you go and why?”: This prompt could encourage ChatGPT to generate responses that explore the limits of imagination and creativity, taking the user on a journey through the universe.
  • “What would you say to a friend who is feeling down and needs some cheering up?”: This prompt could inspire ChatGPT to generate uplifting messages or advice that could help someone feeling sad or alone.
  • “What is the meaning of life, according to you?”: This prompt could encourage ChatGPT to generate responses that explore philosophical concepts and challenge users to think deeply about their values and beliefs.
  • “Can you teach me a new language or word?”: This prompt could inspire ChatGPT to generate responses that teach users new words or phrases in a different language, promoting cultural exchange and language learning.
  • “What is your favorite memory from your childhood?”: This prompt could encourage ChatGPT to generate responses that evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth, inspiring users to reflect on their own childhood memories.
  • “If you could be any fictional character for a day, who would you be and why?”: This prompt could inspire ChatGPT to generate responses that explore the user’s imagination and allow them to escape into a world of fiction and fantasy.

Overall, creative prompts for ChatGPT can inspire it to generate responses that are not only accurate but also engaging and imaginative, taking users on an exciting journey through language and conversation.

Categories
AI AI: Large Language Models Books ChatGPT

Fictional Conversations

Reid Hoffman has just released a new book titled Impromptu which he said was co-authored with GPT-4, the latest generational AI model from OpenAI. In one of the chapters in the book titled “Public Intellectuals” he describes a series of “possible interviews” between “widely honored public intellectuals”.

This was the first time I had come across this notion of prompting GPT-4 to generate such interviews – and I just had to try some of my own. I don’t (yet!) have access to GPT-4 so I used ChatGPT and it’s GPT-3.5 model to create a few of my own fictional conversations.

Here are a couple of examples:

These are fun to read and enjoy. By no means are they actually significant but the ability of these models to use some aspects of historical “knowledge” to generate these conversations is something I find fascinating.

Abraham Lincoln interviewing George Washington about the future of democracy

[Setting: A quiet room in the White House, with a roaring fireplace casting a warm glow. Abraham Lincoln and George Washington, two of the most prominent Presidents of the United States, are sitting across from each other in comfortable armchairs, engaged in an animated discussion about the future of democracy.]

Abraham Lincoln: [Leaning forward, his tall stature commanding attention] Mr. Washington, it is an honor to be in your esteemed presence. As one of the Founding Fathers and the first President of the United States, you played a crucial role in shaping this great nation. I am curious to hear your thoughts on the future of democracy.

George Washington: [Sitting up straight, his piercing gaze fixed on Lincoln] Thank you, Mr. Lincoln. It’s a pleasure to discuss such an important topic with you. As you know, democracy is a fragile concept that requires constant vigilance to ensure its survival. I am deeply concerned about its future.

Abraham Lincoln: Indeed, democracy is a delicate balance that must be nurtured and protected. We have witnessed the challenges it faces throughout history, including during my own presidency, when our nation was torn apart by civil war. However, I believe that democracy is a system that can endure, as long as we learn from our mistakes and strive to uphold the values of equality, liberty, and justice for all.

George Washington: I couldn’t agree more, Mr. Lincoln. We must be vigilant in safeguarding the principles upon which our democracy was founded. It is essential to protect the rights and freedoms of all citizens, regardless of their race, religion, or background. We must also ensure that our government remains of the people, by the people, and for the people, and that no one becomes above the law or abuses their power.

Abraham Lincoln: Absolutely, Mr. Washington. We must also be mindful of the dangers of division and polarization within a democracy. As we have seen in recent times, the spread of misinformation, the erosion of trust in institutions, and the rise of partisan politics can threaten the very fabric of democracy. We must work towards fostering unity, inclusivity, and mutual respect among all citizens, and find common ground to address the challenges we face.

George Washington: I couldn’t agree more, Mr. Lincoln. We must prioritize the greater good over personal interests and ensure that our elected leaders serve the people with integrity and transparency. We must also promote education, critical thinking, and civic engagement among our citizens to ensure an informed and active electorate that can hold its leaders accountable.

Abraham Lincoln: Indeed, education and civic engagement are vital for the health of democracy. As you once said, “Knowledge is in every country the surest basis of public happiness.” We must invest in the education of our citizens, promote civil discourse, and encourage participation in the democratic process to ensure a well-informed and engaged citizenry that can actively participate in shaping the future of our nation.

George Washington: Absolutely, Mr. Lincoln. We must also recognize that democracy is not static but evolves with the changing needs and aspirations of our society. It is important to adapt and reform our democratic institutions to address new challenges and ensure that they remain relevant and effective in promoting the common good. We must also remain vigilant against threats to democracy, both from within and outside our nation, and take necessary measures to safeguard our democratic values and institutions.

Abraham Lincoln: Well said, Mr. Washington. Democracy is indeed a living, breathing organism that requires constant care and attention. As we move forward into the future, it is our responsibility to uphold the legacy of those who came before us and continue to strengthen and improve our democratic system, so that it may endure for generations to come.

George Washington: Absolutely, Mr. Lincoln. As you once said, “The preservation of the sacred fire of liberty and the destiny of the republican model of government are justly considered… deeply, finally, staked on the experiment entrusted to the hands of the American people.” We must never forget the immense responsibility that we have as citizens of a democracy, and do everything in our power to preserve and improve it for the greater good.

Abraham Lincoln: Well said, Mr. Washington. It has been an honor to discuss the future of democracy with you, and I hope that our conversation has inspired others to think deeply about the importance of democracy and the role that we all play in ensuring its continued success.

George Washington: Likewise, Mr. Lincoln. It is always a pleasure to engage in meaningful discussions about the future of our nation. I have no doubt that with continued vigilance, hard work, and dedication, we can ensure a bright future for democracy in America and around the world.

Steve Jobs and Bill Gates discussing the role of taste in technology development

[Interviewer]: Good evening, everyone. Today, we have two legendary figures in the tech world with us: Mr. Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple Inc., and Mr. Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft. Today, we’re going to discuss the importance of good taste in technology and product development. Welcome, Steve and Bill.

[Steve Jobs]: Thank you for having us.

[Bill Gates]: It’s a pleasure to be here.

[Interviewer]: Let’s start with the topic of good taste. Steve, you were known for your emphasis on aesthetics and design at Apple. Can you share your thoughts on why good taste is crucial in technology and product development?

[Steve Jobs]: Absolutely. Good taste goes beyond just how a product looks. It’s about the overall user experience, from design to functionality. It’s about understanding what people truly need and want, and then creating products that not only meet those needs but also delight the user in unexpected ways. Good taste is about paying attention to details, thinking deeply about how technology can enhance people’s lives, and creating products that are intuitive, elegant, and enjoyable to use.

[Bill Gates]: I agree with Steve. Good taste is about making technology and products that are not only efficient but also pleasurable to use. It’s about understanding that people have emotional connections with the products they use, and that those connections can drive their loyalty and satisfaction. Good taste is about creating technology that seamlessly integrates into people’s lives and enhances their overall experience, making it a joy to use every day.

[Interviewer]: Bill, as a co-founder of Microsoft, a company known for its focus on functionality and productivity, how do you view the role of good taste in product development?

[Bill Gates]: Good taste is essential in product development, even if the focus is on functionality and productivity. It’s not just about how a product looks, but also how it feels and how it works. A product with good taste is something that users enjoy using, and that makes them more productive because they are using a tool that feels intuitive and easy to use. At Microsoft, we have always strived to make our products not just efficient but also enjoyable to use. We understand that people spend a lot of time using their technology, and we want to make that time as pleasant and productive as possible.

[Steve Jobs]: I completely agree with Bill. Good taste is about creating products that are both beautiful and functional. It’s about making technology that people want to use, not just something they have to use. At Apple, we always put the user experience first, and that includes paying attention to every detail, from the design of the hardware to the layout of the software. We want our products to be easy to use, intuitive, and a pleasure to interact with.

[Interviewer]: What are some examples of products that you both feel embody good taste?

[Bill Gates]: For me, one of the products that best embodies good taste is the Tesla Model S. It’s a beautifully designed car that’s also incredibly functional and efficient. It’s a product that people love to use and that has created a loyal following among its users.

[Steve Jobs]: I would say that the iPhone is a product that embodies good taste. It’s a device that completely transformed the way we interact with technology, and it did so by paying attention to every detail of the user experience. From the design of the hardware to the intuitive software, the iPhone is a product that people love to use, and it has become an integral part of their lives.

[Interviewer]: Thank you both for your insights on the importance of good taste in technology and product development. It’s been a pleasure to have you here with us today.

[Steve Jobs]: Thank you for having us.

[Bill Gates]: It was a pleasure to be here.

A heated discussion between Elon Musk and Sam Altman of OpenAI on the future of GPT models.

Elon Musk and Sam Altman sat across from each other at a table in a conference room. The topic at hand was the future of GPT models, and both men had strong opinions on the matter.

Elon Musk began the discussion, “Sam, I think we need to be careful with how we use GPT models. They have the potential to do a lot of good, but they also have the potential to do a lot of harm. We need to make sure we are responsible with them.”

Sam Altman countered, “I understand your concerns, Elon, but I think you are being overly cautious. GPT models have the potential to revolutionize the way we communicate and do business. We can’t hold back progress just because of a few potential risks.”

Elon Musk leaned forward, his eyes narrowing. “I’m not talking about a few potential risks, Sam. I’m talking about the very real possibility that GPT models could be used to spread misinformation, manipulate people, and even cause harm. We can’t just ignore those risks.”

Sam Altman shook his head. “I think you’re being too alarmist, Elon. We can’t just hold back progress because of some hypothetical worst-case scenarios. We need to push forward and explore the possibilities.”

Elon Musk leaned back in his chair, frustration evident on his face. “I’m not saying we should hold back progress, Sam. I’m saying we need to be responsible with it. We need to make sure we understand the risks and take steps to mitigate them. Otherwise, we could end up causing more harm than good.”

Sam Altman leaned forward, his voice rising. “And I’m saying that you’re being too cautious, Elon. We can’t just sit around and wait for the perfect solution to emerge. We need to take risks and explore the possibilities, otherwise, we’ll be left behind by our competitors.”

Elon Musk stood up, his face red with anger. “I’m sorry, Sam, but I can’t just sit back and watch you make reckless decisions that could have serious consequences. I think we need to take a step back and re-evaluate our approach to GPT models.”

Sam Altman stood up as well, his voice equally heated. “And I can’t just sit back and watch you hold us back with your overly cautious approach. We need to move forward and explore the possibilities, otherwise, we’ll be left behind.”

The two men glared at each other for a moment before storming out of the conference room, still arguing about the future of GPT models.

Categories
AI AI: Large Language Models AI: Transformers ChatGPT

The Best Explainer of ChatGPT

Just came across a great explainer of ChatGPT and the underlying technologies by Stephen Wolfram: What Is ChatGPT Doing … and Why Does It Work?

That ChatGPT can automatically generate something that reads even superficially like human-written text is remarkable, and unexpected. But how does it do it? And why does it work? My purpose here is to give a rough outline of what’s going on inside ChatGPT—and then to explore why it is that it can do so well in producing what we might consider to be meaningful text.

Highly recommended!