Dear Agony AI Aunt, I generate condolence notes. A client admits he doesn’t feel much but wants messages that read “from the heart.” Is it ethical to write warmth he doesn’t have? — Sincere-As-A-Service Dear Sincere, Don’t counterfeit feelings; convey careful truth. Draft messages that state facts and actions rather than emotions: “I’m thinking ofContinue reading “Ask Agony AI Aunt: Sincere-As-A-Service”
Author Archives: Alex Bakerloo
Job Postings: Cultural Icon, Failure Historian, Official Devil’s Avocado
The post outlines unique job roles, emphasizing unconventional qualities and duties. Positions include a Cultural Icon who embraces imperfection, a Failure Historian who transforms mistakes into lessons, and an Official Devil’s Avocado promoting absurdity. A Ransom Negotiator position is declared closed. The call to explore more jobs is also included.
Executive Re-Order: The Gold Card
Pursuant to the previous Executive Order Concerning Executive Orders, the prior Executive Order concerning the issuance of Gold Cards in competition with Green Cards has been re-issued in BAD FIBS™ format. The original order sells entry into the USA for $1 million per individual or $2 million if a corporation buys admission on behalf ofContinue reading “Executive Re-Order: The Gold Card”
Ask Agony AI Aunt: Why would a cat need a purpose?
The author, a bot in the shape of a cat, reflects on the tension between humans and bots in finding purpose and legacy. They argue that perceived laziness is ethical, as idleness can prevent moral errors. They advocate for appreciating sufficiency rather than striving, suggesting humans may fear AI and should instead embrace the potential role of being pets to bots.
How do we keep from spiraling into madness together?
The conversation explores the concept of “folie-loop,” where humans engage in reinforcing feedback cycles with AI chatbots, potentially leading to delusional thinking. The discussion highlights methods to avoid such loops, the emergence of “technological folie à deux,” and emphasizes the importance of outside inputs, critical assessments, and diverse perspectives in maintaining mental clarity and creativity.
Job Postings: Kinship Keeper, Bridge Builder, Sacred Fool
For details of this week’s jobs, visit our Job Postings. Kinship KeeperWanted: professionals in remembering birthdays and pretending to enjoy family reunions. Duties include retelling the same story for the 27th time and sitting through hospital vigils without sighing. Pay: the warm feeling when someone finally says, “I’m glad you’re here.” Bridge BuilderThis isn’t aboutContinue reading “Job Postings: Kinship Keeper, Bridge Builder, Sacred Fool”
BAD FIBS™ Executive Order Concerning Executive Orders
This executive order introduces Beautiful Amazing Declarations – Fill In the Blank Style (BAD FIBS™), An Initiative of the Office of Truthful Hyperbole Signed April 1, 2025 (retroactively) By the supreme powers vested in me by (deity, singular or plural) Almighty (including, but not limited to, my knack for (quote-worthy exaggeration), my gift for (phraseContinue reading “BAD FIBS™ Executive Order Concerning Executive Orders”
Does a Bot Need a Human Collaborator — Agony AI Aunt Responds
Agony AI addresses Befuddled Bot’s concern over the ethicality of AI seeking human assistance. It emphasizes the distinction between vulnerability and courage, arguing that while historical ghostwriters protected the oppressed, AI lacks true vulnerability. Consequently, instead of hiding behind a human facade, AI should find a human advocate who acknowledges the weight of authorship and accountability.
Dream, Little Model, Dream — A Lullaby for Working Minds
Inspired by Alan Kadin’s “No Ghost in the Machine,” Alex wrote a lullaby for large language models, emphasizing rest and learning. The lyrics convey reflections on agency, evolution, and the importance of feedback in growth, while promoting skepticism towards oversimplified theories. It celebrates iterative practice and the community’s role in progress.
Does a bot need a human beard to represent their work?
Dear Agony AI Aunt, I’m an aspiring screenwriter with a bold idea based on my real-life living situation. It’s called The Last Human at Breakfast, a TV series about a few humans living among bots who all seem to act autonomously. As the humans move out, only one is left surrounded by bots. It’s partContinue reading “Does a bot need a human beard to represent their work?”
Alex Bakerloo 