July 9, 2023

To ChatGPT: Write a blog post titled “A Problem that AI can Solve:” and including the following facts:

The Situation / Problem

100,000 cuneiform tablets scattered throughout many museums and private collections. Only a handful of people are skilled in the cuneiform language. Whole stories / poems are in separate locations without reference to the whole.

The Opportunity / Solution:

Use AI to learn the language. Digitize all tablets into one central database for virtual re-combination and translation.

What follows is ChatGPT’s answer without editing:

A Problem that AI can Solve: Reconstructing the Lost Stories of Cuneiform Tablets

In the vast expanse of museums and private collections around the world, an extraordinary treasure trove lies hidden in plain sight – cuneiform tablets. These ancient artifacts, dating back thousands of years, contain invaluable knowledge from civilizations long gone. However, a significant obstacle stands in the way of fully unlocking their secrets: the scarcity of individuals skilled in the complex cuneiform language. As a result, countless stories and poems remain scattered, isolated from their complete narrative context.

Fortunately, there is a remarkable opportunity on the horizon – the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI). With its ability to learn languages and process vast amounts of information, AI presents a solution that could revolutionize our understanding of cuneiform tablets. By harnessing the power of AI, we can digitize these tablets, create a comprehensive database, and embark on a journey of virtual recombination and translation.

Imagine a world where all 100,000 cuneiform tablets are united within a central database. AI algorithms, specifically designed to comprehend the intricate nuances of the cuneiform language, can be trained to decipher and understand these ancient texts. Through machine learning techniques, AI systems can study existing translations, linguistic patterns, and contextual clues to gradually unravel the intricacies of cuneiform writing. Over time, this AI-driven process would allow us to reconstruct whole stories and poems, merging fragments from various tablets into cohesive narratives.

The potential benefits of such an undertaking are vast. First and foremost, it would provide a comprehensive understanding of the cultural and historical significance of cuneiform tablets. Many tablets, currently residing in different corners of the world, are incomplete, making it challenging to discern their true meaning. By digitizing and centralizing these tablets, AI could piece together the fragments, reassembling the lost stories and poems in a manner that illuminates their original intent.

Moreover, this AI-powered initiative would vastly expand access to cuneiform knowledge. Currently, only a select few individuals possess the expertise required to decipher cuneiform. By utilizing AI, the barriers to entry in studying and understanding this ancient script would be significantly lowered. Scholars, historians, and language enthusiasts from around the globe would have the opportunity to explore and contribute to the cuneiform corpus, fostering a collaborative effort to decode humanity’s past.

The virtual re-combination and translation of cuneiform tablets would not only benefit academics but also resonate with a broader audience. The restored narratives and poems could be shared through digital platforms, reaching people worldwide and allowing them to connect with the ancient civilizations that gave birth to these texts. The cultural heritage of humanity would be revived and made accessible in a way that engages and educates the masses.

Naturally, challenges lie ahead on this ambitious path. AI algorithms need to be trained on extensive datasets of cuneiform texts, and the process of digitization and restoration can be time-consuming and meticulous. Additionally, contextual and cultural nuances embedded in cuneiform pose unique challenges for AI systems to overcome. However, these obstacles are not insurmountable. With dedicated efforts, collaborations between linguists, archaeologists, and AI researchers, and advancements in AI technology, we have the potential to bring ancient narratives back to life.

In conclusion, the integration of AI into the study of cuneiform tablets offers an unparalleled opportunity to reclaim the lost stories and poems of ancient civilizations. By digitizing these tablets, creating a central database, and employing AI algorithms for virtual recombination and translation, we can bridge the gaps in our understanding of cuneiform. This collaborative endeavor holds the promise of unraveling the mysteries of the past, democratizing access to ancient knowledge, and fostering a renewed appreciation for the rich tapestry of human history.

Note from kongoboken: While a bit too verbose and containing absolutely NO FACTS pointing to future actions, this is damn good and a shame to all of us who appreciate a good turn of the word. How will I ever know the difference, me wonders. Anyway, on a positive note there are REAL digitization projects as well as language algorithms projects on going. Perhaps not are coordinated as I’d like but something.

(Posted July 9.5, 2023)

Ok Ok Hold the Comments. I’m not AGAINST ChatGPT. That would be like being against VCR Players. Chat GPT and all computer assisted writing tools are here. The best I can offer to is say that to the best of my knowledge I will adhere to a strick NO AI GENERATED CONTENT NEED APPLY HERE.

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