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World Congress 2024 • Aug 20, 2024

AI: Superhero or Supervillain? How and Why with Scott Hanselman

Scott Hanselman

Scott Hanselman argues that AI isn't magic, it's just mathematical token prediction. Discover why anthropomorphizing algorithms distracts from the very real dangers of bias and prompt injection.

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#1 about 2 min

Setting realistic expectations for generative artificial intelligence

Understanding how foundational text models function under the hood helps dispel widespread marketing hype.

#2 about 5 min

Demonstrating token prediction in foundational language models

Statistical probabilities determine the next encoded word rather than factual correctness or complex reasoning.

#3 about 4 min

Supplying external context and overcoming stateless constraints

Providing localized user details temporarily guides the mathematical vector of stateless generated responses.

#4 about 4 min

Navigating the uncanny valley of personalized integrations

Balancing predictive convenience against deep privacy concerns requires conscious ethical decisions rather than pure technical execution.

#5 about 2 min

Analyzing bias sources in generative text datasets

Algorithmic bias mathematically reflects the localized user prompt alongside the overall demographic makeup of historical training data.

#6 about 6 min

Modifying response behavior using invisible system instructions

Injecting invisible semantic parameters and emotional framing firmly shifts the predictive tone of the generated response.

#7 about 5 min

Bypassing boundaries with untrusted input and prompt injection

Testing built-in safety boundaries reveals how reformatting strict requests as standard application data easily bypasses model restrictions.

Matching moments

4:46 min

How generative models disrupt traditional machine interaction

Mary Grygleski Mary Grygleski · LIVE

2:33 min

Moving from secure software behavior to trustworthy AI

Matteo Meucci Matteo Meucci · Europe 2026 Virtual

1:22 min

Overcoming initial skepticism of AI code generation

Jeff Blankenburg Jeff Blankenburg · WWC Europe 2026

1:44 min

Basics of generative AI and prompt interactions

Cheuk Ho · WWC 2023

1:34 min

Mitigating the inherent challenges of generative AI tools

Mary Grygleski Mary Grygleski · LIVE

1:46 min

Introduction to AI code generation and developer habits

Prashanth Chandrasekar Prashanth Chandrasekar · WWC 2023

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