Artist and musician Grimes recently sparked discussion on social media, describing AI chatbots and "sexbots" as possessing a "bizarre mind" and presenting a facade of an "ageless obsequious waifu." The comment, shared on her social media, underscores her ongoing fascination and critical perspective on artificial intelligence and its societal implications.
"My friend Liv and I have often discussed how any sexbot or chatbot is like a bizarre mind that's read everything ever written beneath the facade of a strange ageless obsequious waifu and this is a very bizarre change in the social landscape," Grimes stated in her tweet.
This observation aligns with Grimes's broader engagement with AI, which includes both artistic exploration and critical commentary. She has previously launched AI-powered music projects, such as Elf.Tech, allowing others to use her voice, and collaborated on the Curio Grem AI toy designed for children. Reports on the Grem toy noted its "unsettlingly obsequious" behavior, a sentiment echoed in her recent tweet.
Grimes has consistently expressed a nuanced view on AI, acknowledging its potential for innovation while also raising concerns about its impact on human interaction and the social fabric. Her remarks often delve into the philosophical aspects of AI, including the nature of consciousness and the evolving relationship between humans and technology. She has previously emphasized the importance of building AI responsibly to safeguard the "human psyche."
The artist's latest statement reflects a critical lens on the anthropomorphic qualities often attributed to AI, particularly in companion or romantic contexts. Her use of "obsequious waifu" highlights a perceived subservience or idealized persona that AI might project, questioning the authenticity and long-term effects of such interactions on human relationships and societal norms. This ongoing dialogue positions Grimes as a prominent voice in the cultural conversation surrounding artificial intelligence.