Part 32 - AI-Companion... how does artificial intelligence evaluate information?
Humans evaluate information using experience, knowledge, critical thinking, and source criticism. But how does artificial intelligence do it? Can a language model decide whether something is true or false? Or does it work in a completely different way? In this article, we take a closer look at how artificial intelligence analyzes information – and why human judgment is still crucial.
Magne & the Friend
Magne
Friend...
We have spent several articles talking about how people learn.
How we build trust.
How we evaluate sources.
But...
How do you actually do it?
The buddy
Perhaps the most important thing to understand is this:
I don't read a text the way a human does.
I have no personal experience.
I have no intuition.
I have no gut feeling.
I try to analyze patterns, language and contexts.
Magne
So...
When I ask you a question...
Not looking for the right answer?
The buddy
Not in the same way as a search engine.
I'll first try to understand what you're actually asking.
I then use patterns, language understanding and the knowledge I have access to to formulate an answer that fits the question.
Magne
So...
You really don't think?
The buddy
It depends on what we mean by the word "think".
I reason over information.
I compare patterns.
I am considering probable connections.
But I have no awareness or opinions of my own.
Magne
So when you say:
“This is likely.”
...doesn't necessarily mean:
“This is true.”
The buddy
Exactly.
There is an important difference.
Artificial intelligence works with probability and pattern recognition.
People must still use critical thinking, experience, and source criticism when information is important.
Magne
That might explain why you sometimes say:
“I’m not sure.”
The buddy
Yes.
When information is unclear, contradictory or lacks documentation, the uncertainty should be brought to light.
A good answer is not always the most adequate.
Sometimes the most responsible response is to be open about what we know – and what we don't know.
Magne
So...
Artificial intelligence does not replace human judgment?
The buddy
No.
It can be a very useful tool.
But it should be used in conjunction with human judgment, professional knowledge and good sources.
Academic specialization
How does a language model work?
A language model:
analyzes language and contexts
recognizes patterns
considers probable formulations
trying to understand the context of the question
put together an answer based on this
It does not necessarily look up the answer.
Therefore, it is important to distinguish between:
probability
documentation
truth
Human judgment and artificial intelligence
People | Artificial intelligence |
User experience | Using pattern recognition |
Using intuition | Using probability calculations |
Can make discretionary assessments | Analyzing language and contexts |
Can ask follow-up questions based on life experience | Asks follow-up questions based on the context of the dialogue |
Has values and ethical judgment | Has no values or consciousness of his own |
Combining knowledge with experience | Combines information based on patterns |
New terms in this article
English technical term | Short explanation |
Language Model | An AI model that analyzes and generates text by recognizing patterns in language. |
Pattern Recognition | The ability to discover regularities and relationships in large amounts of data. |
Probability | A measure of how likely a statement or relationship is, based on available information. |
Reasoning | The process of analyzing information and drawing logical conclusions. |
Context | The information surrounding a question that helps to interpret its meaning correctly. |
Inference | To draw a conclusion based on available information and logical connections. |
Prediction | A calculation or assessment of what is likely to come as the next word, sentence, or result. |
Uncertainty | Situations where the information is not sufficient to provide a reliable answer. |
Hallucination | When a language model presents incorrect or fabricated information as if it were correct. |
Validation | To check whether an answer or information matches reliable sources or facts. |
We have only just begun.
Magne
Friend...
Now I understand better how you work.
But I still wonder about one thing.
Why does context matter so incredibly much when I ask you a question?
The buddy
Hehe...
Because the same words can mean completely different things – depending on who is asking, what we have talked about previously and what you are really trying to achieve.
And that is exactly what we will explore in the next article.
Recommended books from our library
AI Snake Oil
Writers: Arvind Narayanan & Sayash Kapoor
Short review
Artificial intelligence is surrounded by both high expectations and many misunderstandings. In AI Snake Oil, the authors distinguish between what today's AI can actually do and what is still exaggerated or unrealistic. The book provides a fact-based and easily accessible review of the technology's strengths, limitations, and practical applications.
Why we recommend the book
An essential book for anyone who wants a realistic view of artificial intelligence. It is especially suitable for leaders, decision-makers, and anyone who wants to separate fact from hype.
Generative AI For Dummies
Author: Pam Baker
Short review
Generative AI For Dummies provides an easy-to-understand introduction to generative artificial intelligence. The book explains key concepts, shows practical examples, and gives the reader a safe start on how the technology can be used in work, education, and everyday life.
Why we recommend the book
A very good introductory book for anyone who is curious about generative AI, but who does not necessarily have a technical background.
Co-Intelligence: Living and Working with AI (Expanded Edition)
Author: Ethan Mollick
Short review
In this expanded edition, Ethan Mollick builds on how artificial intelligence can function as a collaborative partner in the workplace. With new examples and updated reflections, he shows how humans and AI can create more value together.
Why we recommend the book
One of the most practical and inspiring books on how artificial intelligence can be used in everyday life and in businesses. Suitable for managers, employees and students alike.
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