As the use of AI continues to grow, many of us face an ethical dilemma: how should we incorporate generative AI into our writing processes? I’ve been grappling with this question for some time now. I use the term “ethical” because, in my case, the dilemma doesn’t revolve around legality—it’s about openness, fairness, and aligning with my values.
For me, there are two schools of thought on how GenAI can be used in writing:
1. GenAI for Random Topic Write-Ups
One approach is using GenAI to generate random topic write-ups. In this scenario, I input a prompt, and the AI produces content based on the given direction. Here, my personal creativity and thought process are less involved, as the output is almost entirely driven by the model.
This method might seem like a shortcut at first glance, but it raises an important ethical question: If the content is mainly generated by an AI, is it my work? Am I giving credit where it’s due? While GenAI’s output is undeniably impressive, my lack of personal input makes it feel more like copying than creating. I encounter This ethical conflict when considering using GenAI for simple, random write-ups.
After much thought, I’ve made a firm decision: I will not use GenAI in situations where my creativity and thought process are missing or not present at all. This decision is rooted in a fundamental principle of integrity: doing the right thing even when no one is watching. Integrity means holding myself accountable to my values, regardless of whether someone else is watching me or my work. For me, writing without my own creative involvement would compromise that sense of integrity.
2. GenAI as a Collaborator
On the other hand, I see GenAI as more of a collaborator. Rather than relying on it to generate entire content, I use it to brainstorm, refine, and structure ideas. In this approach, GenAI is like a team of experts with whom I discuss and converge on a topic. I provide the creative direction, and the AI enhances my thinking, helps organize thoughts, and fine-tunes the structure.
This feels more aligned with my values because creativity is still mine, and GenAI is a tool to support and refine my process. By making GenAI part of a larger conversation, I can maintain ownership of the content while benefiting from the AI’s ability to enhance clarity and coherence.
Transparency: The Key to Ethical Use
Regardless of which approach I choose, I strongly believe in the importance of transparency. If I’m using GenAI in any capacity, I feel it’s essential to openly acknowledge it. Acknowledging its role maintains transparency and ensures that readers understand the process behind the content they’re engaging with.
In a world where technology is advancing rapidly, transparency about how and why we use tools like GenAI is crucial. Hiding its involvement might lead to misunderstandings or even a loss of trust. Transparency ensures that the content I create is authentic and that the role of AI is clearly defined.
Personal Reflection: Where Do I Stand?
I’m still navigating this dilemma. Part of me is drawn to the idea of GenAI as a collaborator, especially since it feels more aligned with my values of creativity and authenticity. But I can’t deny that the convenience of using GenAI for random topic write-ups is tempting, especially when I’m pressed for time or looking for inspiration.
In the case of this very blog, it’s important to note that even though the structure, points, and central dichotomy are all born from my thoughts, I’ve used GenAI to help refine and smooth out the flow of the content. The essence, message, and ideas remain mine; GenAI’s role has simply been to help structure the thoughts more cohesively without altering or adding anything new. It exemplifies how AI can enhance clarity while preserving the original intent.
Conclusion
As I continue exploring the use of GenAI in writing, I invite you to reflect on your views. How do you feel about AI’s role in creativity? Is it a tool for enhancement, or does it cross an ethical line when it takes over the creative process? The conversation is just beginning, and I’m eager to see how it unfolds.