Readers share why and how they are avoiding AI

Have you embraced or rejected AI?

We recently asked three AI experts if the idea that "if you don't use AI, you'll be left behind" was true, and found there is a difference between not using, and ignoring, the technology.

Keen to hear more, we invited readers who are avoiding AI to write in a share why.

Lia, 18, Sydney/Gadigal Country

As a university student, generative AI is all around me and is used by students and staff alike.

I refuse to engage in any use of generative AI, or optional AI. I use browser extensions to block Google's AI summary.

I turn off AI in any program I use. I do not engage with programs like ChatGPT and Claude. And I actively avoid and block any social media content that uses AI.

Society is obsessed with accelerationism without [defining] what exactly we are rushing towards.

I fear that AI is not the answer to our problems and will only make the solutions even more difficult to reach.

Samantha, 55, Northam WA/Ballardong Noongar country

AI terrifies me. We had enough trouble knowing what was real, what was true before this, what hope have we got now?

Tayla, 43, Victoria

I work for a company that went from "Do not use AI under any circumstances" to "Use AI for everything" in the blink of an eye.

I am greatly concerned about the environmental impacts of AI and have decided to be a conscientious objector on that issue alone.

I have openly declared my refusal to go out of my way to use AI at work (yes, I know it can't be completely avoided) and have been told by local IT that "I will be left behind".

I am also concerned that people will gradually lose the ability to think for themselves on a broad scale. How many of us remember multiple phone numbers anymore? Imagine that on a broad scale, frightening.

Sadly, I know there won't be any satisfaction in being able to say, "I told you so."

Rainer, 64, Sydney/Gadigal Country

I've been a professional driver for 42 years. I developed an ability to read a street map, way before AI or Google came on the scene.

I would imprint this map into my brain and then drive the route as outlaid and with accordance to my experience.

Surprisingly, there were times when I used Google Maps for a bit of fun and indeed, it showed me a better way.

Here's the thing; I used it once to get to an unfamiliar place, then did the drive again without its help and promptly took the wrong exit.

This shows exactly [what I think is] the biggest error in learning via AI: you don't learn, you simply follow instructions.

Adrian (not their real name), 23, Melbourne/Naarm

I probably do use a lot of tech under [the banner of] "AI" but in terms of large language model chatbots and agents and the whole hype of it, I want it to stop.

Thanks to everyone who wrote in to share their thoughts with us. Some comments have been edited for clarity and brevity.