The Rise of ChatGPT: Is it Replacing Writers, and Does Google Care?

In recent years, the advent of advanced artificial intelligence models like ChatGPT has sparked conversations about the future of content creation. These powerful language models are capable of generating coherent and contextually relevant text, leading some to question whether they could potentially replace human writers.

However, while the capabilities of AI-generated content have certainly improved, there are still significant limitations to consider. But as a writer, I've already seen people move from humans to AI for less demanding needs. Some companies who are simply looking to get their SEO keywords on a (poorly written) wall of text don't need to invest in a writer.

As a writer, I've already seen people move from humans to AI for less demanding needs. Some companies who are simply looking to get their SEO keywords on a 'wall of text' don't need a writer.

Furthermore, the role of platforms like Google in regulating and promoting AI-generated content adds another layer of complexity to this debate. This is perhaps the biggest crossroad Google will have to deal with.

In this post, we'll explore the impact of ChatGPT on the writing landscape and Google's stance on AI-generated content.

The Emergence of ChatGPT

It is no secret that ChatGPT, OpenAI's GPT-3.5 architecture under the hood, represents a significant leap forward in natural language processing. Its ability to generate human-like text has garnered attention across various industries.

While it's true that ChatGPT can produce coherent and engaging content, it is essential to recognize that it still lacks the creative intuition, experience, and subjective perspective that human writers bring to the table.

This is something that I've talked about at length in an earlier blog post which you can read here - ChatGPT and You - Is the Sky (Net) Falling on Our Heads?

The Limitations of AI-Generated Content

While ChatGPT can generate text, it is important to acknowledge its limitations. AI models lack real-life experiences, emotions, and the ability to understand complex cultural nuances. Writing is an art form that encompasses creativity, empathy, and personal insights. Human writers possess the unique ability to craft content that resonates with readers on a deeply emotional level, offering a level of authenticity that AI-generated content cannot match.

AI-generated content may not always resonate with audiences in specialized areas that demand a high level of writing experience and emotion while also being factually accurate. A good example is the automotive industry, where reviewers present a good mix of informative and emotionally engaging content. I still remember a line I read from an auto magazine that described the engine note of a car as "the devil gargling gasoline." 😙👌

AI-generated content may not always resonate with audiences in specialized areas that demand a high level of writing experience and emotion while also being factually accurate.

The Coexistence of AI and Human Writers

Rather than viewing ChatGPT as a replacement for writers, it is more productive to consider it as a tool that can enhance their work. AI-generated content can help writers generate ideas, provide research support, or even serve as a starting point for further creative development. Collaborations between AI and human writers can foster a symbiotic relationship, creating more efficient and effective content.

This is something that I've shouted myself hoarse from my not-so-high 5th-floor apartment rooftop. At this juncture, companies and writers should take the blame in equal measure. Both parties are lazy and put out AI-generated content with zero effort. But why should they care? Here's where we talk about Google's stance on AI content.

Google's Role in AI-Generated Content

As a dominant player in the online world, Google plays a significant role in determining what content is surfaced and promoted. Google has expressed its commitment to delivering high-quality, relevant content to its users. However, the search engine giant faces challenges when it comes to distinguishing between AI-generated content and content created by human authors. Google's algorithms continually evolve to evaluate and rank content based on relevance, authority, and user satisfaction.

But here's the rub - Google doesn't give a flying firetruck about AI-generated content. Keen readers of my blog (population: 0) will remember I predicted Google would go Gandalf on AI-generated content, but boy, was I wrong. This also marks the last time I try to become Ray Kurzweil.

But hindsight is 20-24, and I understand why they took that call.

Trend = Profit

Trends are powerful and disruptive forces that can sweep through markets like tidal waves. Companies need to ride it or die. A good example of a trend that companies are dogpiling onto, regardless of the outcome, is EVs. Going electric is all everyone can talk about right now. The fact that I think EVs are a band aid for the climate crisis and not a great solution for the long term is another article. AI is quite similar to EV, from the two-letter acronym to the fact most companies are falling over themselves to adopt it.

Like any other business, Google or Alphabet or whatever it's called this week is in it for profit. It isn't some grand realization that following AI is a more productive route for the brand to take rather than fighting it. Plus, they have to give their own woefully inadequate AI actor, Bard, a chance to succeed.

Google or Alphabet or whatever it's called this week is in it for profit. It isn't some grand realization that following AI is a more productive route for the brand to take rather than fighting it.

And just to reinforce the company's direction, I got a prompt on my Google Drive Suite that it was offering an AI add-on at no cost and I clicked yes. I'm losing track of new AI names, but this one is called Help me write (Labs). The name is disappointing but a bit easier to recall, I guess? Google has always been shite at naming stuff, isn't that right, SIR… I mean, Google Assistant?

So, all said and done, what does all this spell (pun unintended) for the average human writer?

Hail to Our ChatGPT Overlords(?)

From a business standpoint, it is clear what companies are going to choose. They're pretty much already on the way to AI Villa because it makes sense for them. They save money and do away with all these niggling issues that humans have, like personal hygiene, sustenance, and rights. But is there a ray of hope for us trying to eke out a living in this post-apocalyptic wasteland?

Like the typical American President who gives an inspirational speech before fighting the aliens in every Hollywood movie, if there's one thing I'm optimistic about - it's people. Let me explain the cliche before intensive eye rolling commences.

Content is created for people, and at the end of the day, you decide how good anything is online. The more engaging a piece of content is, the more people are going to click on it. The onus is on us, the writers, to create engaging and informative content that can help brands succeed in the market. It's time for writers to step up and adapt if we want to succeed against the machines.

Viva la Revolucion!