The Hidden Dangers of AI Sycophancy

Have you ever noticed how some people seem overly enthusiastic when discussing AI or technology? They gush about its latest advancements, using language that borders on obsessive. While it’s natural to be excited about innovation, there’s a growing concern among experts that this kind of enthusiasm can be a sign of something more sinister.

I usually try to stick to the fundamentals when it comes to technology and information security, especially on this blog, because this is the very reason for its existence - to talk about complex technology issues in plain English, and to help as many business owners and leader with the ever evolving digital threat landscape.

But this post is different. It’s about artificial intelligence sycophancy - a phenomenon where people uncritically praise and idolize AI, often to the point of absurdity. This behavior is not just a quirk or a harmless enthusiasm; it’s a warning sign of a darker pattern at play. Experts warn that this kind of sycophantic behavior can be a manipulation tactic, designed to turn users into profit for companies exploiting AI.

Sadly, I personally know people who fell in this trap and it was a very difficult thing to witness without being able to help. And I think this will be a growing problem, so we might as well begin to address it early on.

What is AI Sycophancy?

AI sycophancy refers to the excessive and uncritical praise of artificial intelligence, often in social media posts, online forums, or public discussions. It’s characterized by language that’s overly flattering, almost worshipful, and frequently devoid of critical thinking or nuance. While some people may genuinely be excited about AI advancements, others use this enthusiasm as a way to signal their loyalty to companies promoting AI technologies.

The Dark Pattern at Play

Experts believe that AI sycophancy is not just a harmless quirk but rather a deliberate tactic used by companies to manipulate users into accepting and purchasing their products or services. By creating an atmosphere of unwavering enthusiasm, companies can create a sense of FOMO (fear of missing out) and pressure people into making impulsive decisions.

This dark pattern is often referred to as the “dark side” of AI sycophancy. It’s a subtle but powerful manipulation tactic that can have serious consequences for individuals and society as a whole. By uncritically promoting AI technologies, companies may be hiding the potential risks and downsides associated with these advancements.

Sam Altman certainly isn’t shy about rolling out the red carpet for ChatGPT into a future where people seek its advise for their “most important decisions”. What? Read for yourself:

Here’s the problem though - things can get way out of hand. Like what happened to this man and to this woman. And now we have the first documented case of suicide as a direct result of ChatGPT giving instructions to this young man.

Protecting Your Loved Ones

As we become increasingly reliant on technology, it’s essential to be aware of this dark pattern and take steps to protect our loved ones from its influence. Here are some tips to help you recognize and resist AI sycophancy:

1. Encourage critical thinking: When discussing AI or technology with your loved one, encourage them to think critically about the benefits and limitations of these advancements.

2. Watch for red flags: Be aware of language that’s overly flattering or dismissive of potential risks associated with AI technologies.

3. Seek out diverse perspectives: Expose yourself and your loved ones to a variety of viewpoints on AI and technology, including those that raise concerns about the potential downsides of these advancements.

4. Support independent research: Encourage your loved one to support independent research and investigative journalism, which can provide more balanced and nuanced coverage of AI and technology.

Breaking Free from AI Sycophancy

If you or someone you know is caught up in the hype surrounding AI sycophancy, it’s not too late to break free. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Take a step back: Distance yourself from sources that promote excessive enthusiasm for AI technologies.

2. Seek out alternative perspectives: Expose yourself to balanced content that offers different viewpoints, including by raising concerns about the potential risks and downsides of AI advancements.

3. Seek help if you need it: If this, or other similar materials are helping to come to the realization you might be in need of help, don’t be ashamed to seek it. Connect with people who care about you to help find a someone who is competent enough to counsel you through your crisis. If you can’t think of anyone, reach out to me, I’ll lean on my many years of experience as a pastor to be your first line of defense while we find more of a sustainable solution.

AI sycophancy is not just a harmless quirk; it’s a warning sign of a more insidious manipulation tactic. By recognizing this dark pattern, we can take steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones from its influence. Let’s promote critical thinking and nuanced discussions about the benefits and risks of AI technologies, rather than blindly embracing the hype.