The term "artificial intelligence" (AI) has become ubiquitous in our modern world. From video games to self-driving cars, and from chatbots to image generators, AI is everywhere. But here’s the problem: the term is deeply misleading. What we call "AI" isn’t intelligent—it’s a series of mathematical calculations performed by machines. It doesn’t think, reason, or understand; it computes. It’s time to retire the term "artificial intelligence" and replace it with something more accurate: artificial calculations or artificial computation.
The Misleading Nature of "Artificial Intelligence"
The term "artificial intelligence" evokes images of sentient machines, capable of human-like thought and creativity. This is a fantasy. What we currently have as AI is nothing more than sophisticated algorithms that process data, recognize patterns, and generate outputs based on predefined rules. For example, ChatGPT can write essays, but it doesn’t "understand" the words it’s producing—it’s simply predicting the next word in a sequence based on its training data. Similarly, the AI in a game like Total War doesn’t "strategize"; it follows a set of instructions to move units and attack targets.
This isn’t intelligence—it’s computation. Intelligence implies the ability to reason, adapt, and think critically. AI, as it exists today, does none of these things. It’s a tool, not a mind. By calling it "artificial intelligence," we’re perpetuating a myth that obscures the true nature of these systems and inflates public expectations.
Why "Artificial Calculations" Is a Better Term
The term "artificial calculations" is far more accurate. It reflects the reality that these systems are performing mathematical operations, not engaging in anything resembling human thought. Here’s why this term works:
- It’s Honest: "Artificial calculations" doesn’t pretend to be something it’s not. It acknowledges that these systems are based on math, not intelligence.
- It’s Clear: The term removes the mystique surrounding AI and helps people understand what these systems actually do.
- It’s Specific: Unlike "AI," which is a vague and overused term, "artificial calculations" describes the process at the heart of these systems.
For example, when you play a game like Civilization and the AI makes a decision, it’s not "thinking"—it’s running calculations to determine the optimal move based on its programming. When you use a tool like MidJourney to generate art, it’s not "creating"—it’s processing data to produce an image based on patterns it has learned. These are computational tasks, not acts of intelligence.
The Problem with Overhyping AI
The misuse of the term "artificial intelligence" has real-world consequences. It creates unrealistic expectations about what these systems can do, leading to disappointment when they inevitably fall short. For example, players often complain about the "stupidity" of AI in games like Total War or XCOM, not realizing that the AI was never intelligent to begin with—it was just following a script. Similarly, people are sometimes alarmed by the capabilities of generative AI, fearing that it might "take over" or "replace humans," when in reality, it’s just a sophisticated tool that relies on human input and oversight.
By rebranding AI as "artificial calculations," we can reset these expectations. People will understand that these systems are tools, not rivals, and that their capabilities are limited to the data and algorithms they’re built on.
The Hype Economy: Selling AI Solutions and Courses
One of the most troubling consequences of the AI hype is the rise of companies and individuals profiting from the confusion. The market is flooded with "AI solutions" and "AI courses" that promise to revolutionize businesses, careers, and lives. But many of these offerings are built on buzzwords, not substance. Companies sell AI-powered tools as if they’re magic bullets, while self-proclaimed experts peddle courses that claim to teach "AI mastery" in a matter of weeks.
The problem is that many buyers don’t understand what they’re purchasing. They hear "AI" and assume they’re getting cutting-edge technology that can solve all their problems. In reality, they’re often buying basic automation tools or pre-packaged algorithms that are far less impressive than the marketing suggests. For example, a small business might invest in an "AI-driven marketing platform" only to discover that it’s just a glorified email scheduler with some data analytics tacked on.
Similarly, individuals might spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on AI courses, hoping to land a high-paying job in the tech industry. But many of these courses offer little more than surface-level knowledge, leaving students ill-prepared for the realities of working with these systems. The hype around AI creates a gold rush mentality, where companies and individuals exploit the public’s lack of understanding to make a quick profit.
The Gaming Industry: A Case Study in Misleading AI
The gaming industry is a perfect example of how the term "AI" creates false expectations. In games, AI is often used to control non-player characters (NPCs) or opponents. But as any experienced gamer knows, these systems are rarely impressive. They follow predictable patterns, make obvious mistakes, and can often be "tricked" by players who understand how they work.
For instance, in Total War, the AI might send its units charging into a trap because it’s programmed to prioritize attacking the closest target. In XCOM, the AI might ignore a high-value target in favor of attacking a less threatening one. These behaviors aren’t signs of intelligence—they’re the result of rigid calculations that lack the flexibility and adaptability of human thought.
If we called these systems "artificial calculations" instead of "AI," players would have a better understanding of their limitations. They wouldn’t expect the AI to be a genius tactician; they’d understand that it’s just a set of rules and math problems running in the background.
A Call for Change
It’s time for a shift in how we talk about these systems. The term "artificial intelligence" is not only inaccurate but also harmful. It creates confusion, inflates expectations, and distracts from the real potential of these technologies. By adopting terms like "artificial calculations" or "artificial computation," we can foster a more honest and productive conversation about what these systems can and cannot do.
This change isn’t just about semantics—it’s about clarity and accountability. When we stop pretending that these systems are intelligent, we can focus on improving them in meaningful ways. We can design better algorithms, create more transparent systems, and set realistic expectations for their use.
Conclusion: Let’s Embrace Accuracy
The term "artificial intelligence" has had its moment, but it’s time to move on. What we’re dealing with isn’t intelligence—it’s computation. By calling it "artificial calculations," we can better reflect the reality of these systems and set the stage for a more informed and realistic discussion about their role in our world.
Whether it’s in gaming, generative tools, or any other application, let’s stop pretending that these systems are something they’re not. Let’s embrace accuracy, clarity, and honesty. The future of technology depends on it. And let’s not forget: the hype around AI isn’t just misleading—it’s profitable for those who exploit it. It’s time to cut through the noise and focus on what really matters: understanding and improving the tools we have, not the fantasies we’ve been sold.
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