Vibin' With Erlang (blog.whenhen.com)

A recent discussion highlights the challenges faced by Erlang, a functional programming language known for its declarative nature, in the era of AI-generated code. The author critiques the current trend known as "vibe coding," which has led to a resurgence of complex, unreadable syntax in Erlang, particularly illustrated through an AI-generated code snippet rife with nested case expressions. This shift is concerning for developers who appreciate the craft and beauty of clean, maintainable code, as it risks establishing a troubling standard for what is deemed acceptable programming. The implications for the AI/ML community are significant; as AI begins to influence code generation, there’s a fear of a "race to the bottom" in source code quality. The ease with which AI can produce suboptimal syntax may homogenize coding standards, overshadowing the unique strengths of languages like Erlang. This situation prompts a broader reflection on the role AI should play in programming—serving merely as a tool for mundane tasks rather than a replacement for the nuanced craft of skilled developers. Such shifts could lead to a diminished appreciation for the artistry in coding, raising questions about the future of software development in an increasingly automated landscape.