AI language is misleading and needs clearer narratives

The article argues that common metaphors—like humanoid robots and 'artificial brains'—misrepresent how contemporary AI is built and used, and that these narratives shape public understanding, policy debate and investment decisions.

Artificial Intelligence is often discussed as if it were an independent, almost alien force. The piece explains that metaphors and stories shape how the public and decision-makers imagine AI. It says many familiar images—anthropomorphic assistants, digital brains and humanoid robots—do not match how current systems operate. The author calls for shifting attention toward the people, resources and systems that make AI work. Key points: - Common metaphors and anthropomorphic language can distort the essence, abilities and limits of current AI models. - The article links this distortion to the older idea of "autonomous technology," a view that machines act independently of human decisions. - It cites the observation that AI is embodied and material, built from resources, labour, infrastructure and classifications rather than being purely abstract intelligence. - These narratives can inflate expectations, shape public debate and contribute to economic dynamics sometimes described as an AI investment bubble. - The author recommends reframing AI as human-guided, emphasising present risks and social dimensions, and changing stylistic habits such as avoiding anthropomorphic verbs. Summary: The prevailing language around AI can mislead how people understand and govern the technology, with effects on policy, public debate and investment. The article proposes reframing AI as a socio-technical system guided by human choices and suggests stylistic and conceptual shifts to correct misleading narratives. Undetermined at this time.