"A" for "Artificial"

Written on 2026-03-02

I sometimes get weird looks when I tell programmers my main language is PHP. They wonder why I would choose PHP over other languages. The answer is simple: I think of PHP as a tool, just like any other language, framework, or technology; and it's a tool I know well. I know what it's good at; I know its limitations; I know when to and when not to use it.

Thinking of technology as tools that serve us, each with their purpose; advantages, and disadvantages is equally important when talking about AI. When you look up "artificial" in the dictionary, you'll find these definitions:

Artificial — adjective

  1. made by human skill; produced by humans
  2. imitation; simulated; sham.
  3. lacking naturalness or spontaneity; forced; contrived; feigned

In this hype-driven age, it's good to remember that AI is artificial. It's a tool. Use it in the right way at the right time, and it's a powerful one to have. But just like any programming language, framework, or technology; it is, and will always be, nothing more than a human-made tool.

Things I wish I knew when I started programming

Things I wish I knew when I started programming cover image

This is my newest book aimed at programmers of any skill level. This book isn't about patterns, principles, or best practices; there's actually barely any code in it. It's about the many things I've learned along the way being a professional programmer, and about the many, many mistakes I made along that way as well. It's what I wish someone would have told me years ago, and I hope it might inspire you.

Read more

Comments

Loading…
No comments yet, be the first!
Noticed a tpyo? You can submit a PR to fix it.
Home RSS Newsletter Discord © 2026 stitcher.io Login