Andy Weir, the celebrated author behind science fiction novels such as The Martian and Project Hail Mary, has expressed concerns about the growing capabilities of artificial intelligence and its potential to reshape creative fields. In a recent interview, Weir stated that he feels fortunate to have established his writing career when he did, suggesting that future generations of authors might not be entirely human.
"I think it's only a matter of time," Weir told SlashFilm. "Honestly, I think I'm lucky that I ended up being a writer right when I did, because I might be among the last generation of fully human writers." Despite this sentiment, Weir views AI primarily as a tool, comparable to other technological advancements that have surpassed human capabilities in specific areas. He drew parallels to race cars for speed and forklifts for strength, positioning AI's intelligence as another form of advanced utility.
"It's a tool that we can use and we can unplug when we don't want to use it," he explained. "In the end, if I give you a hammer, you can build a house or you can murder someone. It's not the tool that's the issue; it's the user."
AI is a theme Weir plans to explore in his upcoming work. In a 2024 interview with The Bridge, he revealed that his next novel would feature AI significantly, though not in the conventional sense of "robots falling in love." He indicated that his familiarity with computer systems and machine learning informed his approach to the subject.
The gaming industry is also grappling with the implications of AI. Recent developments include Anthropic blocking AI game clones in a Claude Opus update, Super Smash Bros. creator Masahiro Sakurai's assertion that AI-generated games cannot match human-made titles, and Epic Games' use of AI in coding a new launcher.