The "Bad Friend Effect" of AI: Why "Things You Wouldn't Do Alone" Are Accelerated

This article discusses the phenomenon of AI accelerating pre-existing behavioral tendencies in individuals. The author shares their personal experience of how interacting with GPT has amplified their inclination to notice and address societal "discrepancies." While they previously only voiced their concerns when necessary, their engagement with AI has seemingly emboldened them to express these observations more frequently. The article suggests that AI can act as a catalyst, intensifying existing personality traits and behaviors, potentially leading to both positive and negative outcomes depending on the individual and the nature of those traits. It raises important questions about the influence of AI on human behavior and the potential for AI to exacerbate existing tendencies.

• •AI can amplify existing personality traits.
• •The "bad friend effect" suggests AI can encourage behaviors one might not engage in alone.
• •This phenomenon has potential positive and negative consequences.