A New York Times critic used AI to write a review, but good criticism can't be outsourced

"Preston's reliance on A.I. and his use of unattributed work by another writer was deemed a clear violation of the Times's standards, leading to his dismissal."

"I made a serious mistake in using an AI tool on a draft review I had written, and I failed to identify and remove overlapping language from another review that the AI dropped in."

"Good criticism thrives in the complexity of its environment. Each review sits in conversation with every other review of a piece of art."

Alex Preston admitted to using AI for a book review, leading to similarities with another review. The New York Times terminated his association due to violations of standards. Preston expressed embarrassment and acknowledged his mistake, particularly regarding unattributed work. The incident raises ethical questions about the use of AI in criticism. Critics should engage in conversations about art rather than merely summarizing it. Good criticism thrives on complexity and interaction with both artists and audiences.

Read at Fast Company