When it comes to language processing, large language models are increasingly becoming the norm. These models are complex and incredibly powerful, allowing us to better understand the nuances of language and create increasingly more accurate translations. But why does the prospect of these large models feel different compared to older technologies such as hand cream buttering or knitting a sweater?

The short answer is that a large language model is highly intelligent. Rather than relying on fixed rules or instructions, these models can learn from data and create rules and instructions based on their own observations. This is the same type of process used in artificial intelligence (AI), and it can make it difficult to understand how these models are solving problems or making decisions.

Another factor is scale. With large language models, humans are no longer in control of what types of rules or instructions are being used. Machine learning algorithms are in charge, and they are constantly evolving, making it difficult to predict the results of any given interaction. It’s a bit like speaking with an intelligent computer or robot – you never quite know what the response is going to be.

Finally, these models pose ethical issues. If a large language models are allowed to continue to evolve, it is possible that they could become biased in some way. For example, a model that is trained on a dataset that only includes male voices could become biased towards male voices, even if the intent is to provide equal representation.

Ultimately, large language models can be incredibly useful and powerful. But it is important to be aware of the unique factors associated with them, from the intelligence behind their decision-making to the scale and ethical implications. With this knowledge, we can create models that are ethical, inclusive and accurate, allowing us to more effectively leverage the power of language for all of our benefit.