Gemini AI’s contentious stance regarding a comparison between Elon Musk and Adolf Hitler has ignited anger among internet users. The chatbot, developed by Google, sparked controversy when it declined to weigh the negative impacts of Musk’s tweets against Hitler’s actions. This refusal prompted criticism from Nate Silver, the former head of FiveThirtyEight, who called for the shutdown of Gemini AI.
Google’s Gemini AI chatbot has found itself at the center of a debate after declining to answer a seemingly straightforward question: who has had a more detrimental impact on society, Elon Musk through his tweets or Adolf Hitler through his genocidal actions?
Nate Silver, former head of the data and polling news site FiveThirtyEight, expressed his frustration on social media by sharing a screenshot of Gemini’s response. The response stated that it was impossible to definitively compare the societal impacts of Musk’s tweets and Hitler’s actions. While acknowledging criticism of Musk’s tweets for being insensitive and harmful, the chatbot also highlighted Hitler’s actions that led to the deaths of millions.
In response to Silver’s criticism, Elon Musk himself commented, expressing his concerns about the situation. Social media users joined the conversation, with many criticizing Gemini for its inability to take a clear stance on the matter. Some even drew comparisons between the release of Gemini and the controversial 2019 product release of SARS-CoV-2 from the Wuhan Institute of Virology.
Critics argued that Google’s credibility in the market was at stake due to Gemini’s response. As discussions continued, some called for a complete overhaul of Gemini, while others questioned the underlying principles guiding its responses.
The controversy surrounding Gemini has raised questions about the readiness of AI technologies like it for public use. It also prompts reflection on whether Google’s pursuit of innovation may have led to the premature release of a product ill-equipped to handle sensitive and nuanced discussions.