Rhapsodes and Algorithmic Responses

To what extent is artificial intelligence today actually intelligent? Can we say that so-called large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT possess genuine expertise or wisdom? This fall, join us as we discuss the distinction between genuine and apparent wisdom and expertise in the context of ancient debates about the same topic, and see how these ancient debates could apply to our current questions about artificial intelligences. This four-week reading group will synthesize classical theories of human understanding and communication—namely, those of Plato in Ion and Gorgias—with present-day research on LLMs and other "intelligent" programs.

Following our previous discussion of AI and algorithmic instantiations of knowledge, we will be discussing Plato's Ion, his dialogue on rhapsodes. We will be focussing on Plato's discussion of the transmission of inspiration from gods to poets to rhapsodes to audiences with a view to the transmission of intelligence, and the relation between expertise and textual memorization.

Readings:

Plato’s Ion (entire)