Introduction
The theory of black holes has often inspired literature and art, frequently as metaphors for emptiness, forgetfulness, or the end of all memory. However, AI fits into this tradition by offering a new perspective on how information is processed, stored, and forgotten. Richard Dyer’s work “Cosmic Amnesia” highlights this idea, using the theory of black holes as a starting point for a reflection on memory and forgetfulness.
The Theory of Black Holes and AI
A black hole is a region of space from which nothing, not even light, can escape, a zone of total emptiness. When a massive star explodes, its gravity contracts so intensely that anything that gets too close is pulled towards its centre, including information about its history. It is a striking image of forgetfulness, a moment where information disappears, leaving behind a complete void.
The AI and Virtual Memory
The AI also manipulates memory. Language models can learn vast amounts of information, then quickly forget this information in response to certain queries and focus on new tasks. This ability to “forget” and “remember” dynamically raises questions about the nature of memory itself and how we perceive knowledge.
The Art and the Collective Memory
In “Cosmic Amnesia”, Dyer explores how AI and the theory of black holes can influence artistic creation. Art, in a broad sense, is often a form of collective memory, a means for humans to preserve and transmit information about their environment and experiences. With AI, we see a form of collective memory that can be more flexible and dynamic, but also more fragile.
The AI as Creator
AI is increasingly being used as an artistic creation tool. Artists can use language models to generate art, poems, songs, and more. However, if these works are created by a system that can “forget” information quickly, how can we consider their artistic value or authenticity? Are they merely reproductions of existing patterns, or can they be considered true creations?
Conclusion
“Cosmic Amnesia” raises crucial questions about the nature of memory, not only in the artistic domain but also in society at large. If AI can “forget” as quickly as a black hole, does this mean it can never truly “know” or “understand”? Or is it an illustration of how memory itself is fluctuating, always adapting and changing?
Reflecting on these questions, we can see how AI, like the theory of black holes, reveals profound aspects of our own understanding of memory and creation.
Cet article est rédigé par Blaise Grenier, Journaliste reporter d'images et auteur. Découvrir le parcours de l'auteur et la charte éditoriale »