Hating AI in 2026 (www.eamoncaddigan.net)

The essay “Hating AI in 2026” reflects on the current state of artificial intelligence and its implications, particularly the reliance on chatbots and neural network models. The author expresses concern over society's obsession with AI technologies, which, despite their sophistication, do not represent true understanding or consciousness. As companies continue to prioritize building larger models utilizing vast data and energy, the author argues that innovation in the underlying technology has stagnated, raising urgent ethical questions about the environmental impact and social costs of AI. Significantly, the piece critiques the mainstream acceptance of AI, suggesting that many stakeholders—from tech giants to everyday users—overlook the moral and ecological ramifications tied to its advancement. The author's call to action encourages a reevaluation of our relationship with AI technology, proposing that opting out of it could align more closely with ethical beliefs surrounding climate change and social equity. This introspective analysis serves as a cautionary commentary for the AI/ML community, urging pragmatism and ethical responsibility in technology adoption amid growing climate concerns.