I’ve noticed a recent AI promotional tactic that AI Evangelists have been employing with increasing frequency. (It’s used heavily with other products and technologies too.) It goes like this…
AI is not the problem…
_________ is the problem.
(Insert in the blank whatever object, service, or notion that is being promoted).
For example, if I were selling a consultancy that helps schools develop AI policy, I would say the following:
“AI is not the problem,
Lack of sound AI policy is the problem.”
But there is a deception in this promotional tactic, that the savy leader needs to know about. It involves using the tactic of “inoculating the target against any idea or misgivings that AI has problems.” Immediately the statement “AI is not the problem” tries to place it beyond question. That’s deceptive.
Deceptively, that is not true. AI has plenty of problems technically, morally, and ethically and much has been and is being written about it. There are also problems inherently instilled within these products, but by immediately deflecting attention from the issues, one is prevented from even going there, and focuses on the product being sold.
If a product promotion requires deceptive and manipulative practices to make a sale, is the product really worth it? But perhaps that’s just modern sales for some.
Watch and be critical at all times. AI snake oil salespersons abound.
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