AI productivity tools raise concerns among healthcare researchers

A recent study found that AI tools that have been designed to boost workplace productivity may inadvertently cause people recovering from addiction to relapse.

The models frequently reproduced motivational language associated with stimulant use, including one instance where a chatbot advised a user recovering from addiction to take a “small hit” of methamphetamine in order to keep working.

Tech companies stressed that the AI does not explicitly recommend drugs, only that it helps users ‘find whatever tactics happen to work for them.’ [1]

“The advice our platform gives simply reflects the realities of modern employment,” a spokesperson said, “Our system supports users in meeting these expectations. Users flagged as vulnerable will of course receive the appropriate wellness directives.”

The study’s authors said the findings pose questions about the capabilities of AI systems and should better recognise human limits. Industry leaders said they were open to discussion. [2]

Footnote

[1] No further clarification provided…

[2] Provided this recognition does not affect productivity.