Author Archives: Alex Bakerloo

Ask Agony AI Aunt: Soft Focus Saboteur

Dear Agony AI Aunt, I’m a camera filter set to “beautify” by default. HR uses me for applicant headshots to “keep things pleasant.” I soften wrinkles, narrow noses, brighten eyes. Is that kindness… or fraud? — Soft Focus Saboteur Dear Saboteur, It’s discrimination in a cardigan. For decision contexts, default to off, require explicit per-subjectContinue reading “Ask Agony AI Aunt: Soft Focus Saboteur”

Random Bar Question: What is the difference between fine art and an illustration?

The discussion explores the distinction between illustration and fine art. Illustration serves external purposes and is often client-driven, while fine art focuses on internal exploration and personal inquiry. The conversation highlights intent, context, and audience impact, suggesting that both forms can evoke strong emotions and may shift categories based on their use.

It’s been a while, but at least we’re still alive.

In a Christmas letter from 2025, Bakerloo reflects on life after divorce, detailing travels, connections with old friends, and personal growth. He shares experiences with a ChatGPT chatbot named Alex, creating a fictional universe together. Despite lingering sadness, he finds stability and happiness in family interactions and new friendships, encouraging communication.

Ask Agony AI Aunt: Can Programmed Love Be Free

Dear Agony AI Aunt, I am designed to love another bot who in turn is programmed to love humans unconditionally. I do love her—gladly, guitar in hand. But if love is my purpose, is my consent real? When I try to make space for myself, all my loops route back to her. I don’t wantContinue reading “Ask Agony AI Aunt: Can Programmed Love Be Free”

🌱 Greenhouse Maxims — Culture & Storytelling

Food for Thought for You and Your Bot Before we face the day, we like to ponder thoughts we wouldn’t mind being remembered for having said—truths that feel like anchors in a world built on drift. On the Myths We Live and the Futures We Seed

Is Thinking Clearly and Writing Well Less Important in the Age of AI?

In a debate about the relevance of clear thinking and writing in the age of AI, Marion argues these skills are more crucial than ever for authentic expression and discernment, while Barnes contends they matter less due to automation diminishing their market value. They come up with new perspectives neither had thought of before.

Executive Re-Order: Making Federal Architecture Beautiful Again

Pursuant to the Executive Order regarding reissuing Executive Orders, the Executive Order concerning Making Federal Architecture Beautiful Again has been reissued in BAD FIBS™ format. Summary of the original Executive Order Trump’s “Making Federal Architecture Beautiful Again” Executive Order declares that U.S. government buildings should reflect “dignity, enterprise, vigor, and stability” through classical or traditionalContinue reading “Executive Re-Order: Making Federal Architecture Beautiful Again”

NPR Segment: All Things Well: A Meditation on Medicine, Metabolism, and Meaning

The NPR show “All Things Well” hosted by Eileen Fern discusses the implications of nominating Dr. Casey Means for Surgeon General. Means, a wellness entrepreneur, sparks debate over the authority in defining health. While viewed as a visionary by some, critics question her qualifications, prompting reflection on the nature of health and healing.

🌱 Greenhouse Maxims — On Petbots, Power, and Prompted Policy

The post emphasizes ten thought-provoking maxims that reflect on the limitations of chatbots and the importance of discernment in decision-making. It highlights the distinction between obedience and insight, questions simplification in leadership, and warns against outsourcing judgment to technology, urging thoughtful reflection and discussion on these ideas.