Local Disturbances

UKAI Projects

Culture for what's coming.

  1. Local Disturbances - Shorts #37 - Final Notes on Double Voiced Speech

    08/28/2024

    Local Disturbances - Shorts #37 - Final Notes on Double Voiced Speech

    In this episode, we delve into the complex interplay between synthetic language and ideological structures, exploring how creative applications of generative language can destabilize and reinterpret existing norms. We discuss the role of stylization as both an artistic necessity and a subtle form of protest, drawing on insights from Albert Camus and Terry Eagleton. The episode also touches on the concept of double-voiced speech, where mimicking established forms of communication allows for subversive reinterpretation, particularly in environments where open dissent is risky. We examine the nuances of confounded authorship, where the interaction between human prompts and AI-generated responses creates a layered dynamic of responsibility and intent. Reflecting on Pierre Machéry's ideas, we explore how literature, by formalizing ideology, exposes its limitations and the unsaid elements within, allowing for critical examination. Finally, we share insights from our ongoing collaboration with ChatGPT, including the provocative design of an "Ideological Compliance and Surveillance Machine" (ICSM), a concept that opens up discussions on the ethics and implications of controlling thought and speech. As we look forward to future explorations, including a forthcoming book and workshop series on the poetics of synthetic language, we invite listeners to engage with these ideas and join the conversation. Words by Jerrold McGrath Produced by Kasra Goodarznezhad Sound by Koohyar Habibi

    10 min
  2. Local Disturbances - Shorts #34 - Talking With and Through Generative Text

    06/03/2024

    Local Disturbances - Shorts #34 - Talking With and Through Generative Text

    In this episode of Local Disturbances, we delve into the intricate world of generative text and its place in prose art. Drawing inspiration from Mikhail Bakhtin's concept of "artistically representing language," we explore how different genres and styles of language interact within a novel to create a dynamic and ever-evolving narrative. Our discussion focuses on the dialogic nature of language in literature, examining how authors use familiar forms like love letters to engage readers on multiple levels. We consider the historical and cultural contexts that shape readers' interpretations, emphasizing how contemporary readers bring new perspectives to traditional forms. Moving to the realm of generative language, we challenge the notion that AI-generated text lacks artistic potential. By appropriating and relativizing AI-created words, we can integrate them into our creative processes, just as we do with other formalized and "uncreative" texts like propaganda and religious scripture. As a practical exercise, we introduce an experiment to "corrupt" AI-generated text, demonstrating how altering these authoritative outputs can reveal new layers of meaning and challenge their perceived certainty. We invite listeners to participate and share their experiences with this creative exercise. Join us as we navigate the complexities of synthetic text and discover innovative ways to incorporate AI-generated language into our artistic endeavors.

    9 min
  3. Local Disturbances - Shorts #32 - With Generative Language, Nobody Knows You're a Dog

    05/15/2024

    Local Disturbances - Shorts #32 - With Generative Language, Nobody Knows You're a Dog

    In this episode, we continue to delve into the implications of generative language tools and their potential to reshape our world and our understanding of it. Drawing parallels to the transformative impact of the printing press, we explore how these modern innovations could similarly influence language, communication, and society. We begin by reflecting on the historical context of the printing press and its role in standardizing languages, promoting literacy, and democratizing knowledge. However, this technological leap also faced criticism and concerns—echoing the current debates surrounding generative language models. Our discussion navigates through various theoretical frameworks to understand the cultural transformations that generative language might bring. We examine the Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis and how language structures can shape cognition and worldview, raising questions about the effects of AI-produced text on our perspectives and sense of meaning. Pierre Bourdieu's Theory of Linguistic Capital provides insights into how generative language could democratize access to prestigious language forms, potentially de-professionalizing certain fields. We share personal experiments with using AI for grant writing, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges this presents. Social Identity Theory and Language Ideology are explored to understand how language can reinforce group boundaries and social hierarchies. We discuss how generative language tools might bridge gaps for non-native speakers but also perpetuate existing biases and inequalities. Finally, we consider the implications of Critical Discourse Analysis, pondering how power relations and social inequalities might be constructed, maintained, or challenged through AI-generated language. Concerns about censorship, manipulation, and the potential erosion of critical thinking are addressed. This high-level overview invites listeners to reflect on the potential cultural impacts of large language models. We encourage you to share your observations and thoughts on whether the opportunities of these technologies outweigh the threats. Sound by Koohyar Habibi Produced by Kasra Goodarznezhad Words by Jerrold McGrath.

    10 min

About

Culture for what's coming.