Why are people starting to sound like ChatGPT? | Adam Aleksic - TED Talks Daily Recap

Podcast: TED Talks Daily

Published: 2025-12-18

Duration: 27 minutes

Guests: Adam Aleksic

Summary

Adam Aleksic discusses how AI, particularly ChatGPT, is influencing language and behavior by subtly altering word choices and trends. He highlights the subconscious impact of algorithms on our perception of reality.

What Happened

Adam Aleksic, an etymologist, raises concerns about the impact of AI tools like ChatGPT on language and behavior. He explains that AI influences word choices, leading to subtle shifts in how people communicate. For instance, the word 'delve' has become more common since ChatGPT overuses it, highlighting the model's impact on language.

Aleksic notes that algorithms often misrepresent reality, creating a feedback loop where AI-influenced language becomes normalized. He warns about the potential dangers of losing the distinction between real and algorithmically-influenced trends, as seen with the emergence of musical genres like hyperpop due to platforms like Spotify.

He emphasizes that algorithms are not neutral tools; they are designed to maximize profit for platforms like TikTok and Spotify, which can distort cultural trends and perceptions. This commodification of trends can lead to a homogenization of language and culture, reducing the diversity of perspectives.

Aleksic shares his journey into studying language and its evolution, from high school projects to writing a book on how social media changes language. He reflects on the dynamic nature of language and how new mediums, like AI, are reshaping communication.

During a conversation with Elise Hu, Aleksic discusses the rapid pace of language change in the digital age, driven by platforms like TikTok. He observes that trends can emerge and fade quickly, creating a challenge for traditional linguistic research.

Aleksic also addresses the societal implications of algorithmic influence, noting how it affects political and social perceptions. He stresses the importance of media literacy to navigate these changes, advocating for educational efforts to teach critical thinking about digital content.

He highlights the need for individuals to remain conscious of how platforms shape perceptions, encouraging questions like 'Why am I seeing this?' to resist adopting skewed realities. Aleksic warns that without such awareness, AI's version of reality could dominate.

In conclusion, Aleksic calls for a broader understanding of the cultural shifts driven by AI and algorithms. He argues that recognizing these influences is crucial to preserving the richness and diversity of human language and culture.

Key Insights