SHOW NOTES: In episode 292 of the Genealogy Gems podcast, Lisa Louise Cooke discusses the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on genealogy research, exploring its evolution, ethical considerations, and the importance of data privacy. Genealogists need to understand AI’s capabilities and limitations and develop a balanced approach to its use in research. She also covers the significance of being aware of data privacy when using AI tools. This video comes from our full-length “Elevenses with Lisa” live show exclusively available to Premium Members. Then we discuss genealogy resources, storytelling techniques, and the impact of AI on writing in the genealogy field with author Sunny Morton.
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Artificial Intelligence and Genealogy Research
AI has been around for a while – genealogy websites have used variations of it. But clearly we are experiencing a big uptick in the role that AI is playing not only in genealogy research, but life in general.
What is AI?
According to ChatGPT: “These terms describe different levels of artificial intelligence:
1. AI (Artificial Intelligence): This is a broad term referring to machines or software that can perform tasks typically requiring human intelligence, such as recognizing speech, analyzing data, or playing chess. Most AI today is narrow AI (ANI), meaning it is specialized for specific tasks (e.g., ChatGPT for conversation, DeepMind’s AlphaFold for protein folding).
2. AGI (Artificial General Intelligence): This refers to AI that can understand, learn, and apply intelligence across a wide range of tasks at a human-like level. An AGI system would be able to reason, solve novel problems, and adapt like a human without being limited to pre-programmed tasks.
3. ASI (Artificial Superintelligence): This is a hypothetical AI that surpasses human intelligence in all aspects, including creativity, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence. ASI would be capable of independent thinking and continuous self-improvement, potentially leading to intelligence far beyond human capabilities.
Right now, we have narrow AI (ANI), while AGI is still theoretical, and ASI remains a concept in science fiction and futurist discussions. We are currently at “AI” with AGI as a long-term goal that has not yet been achieved.”
Lesson: Real is usually better than artificial.
Analogy: Even though grandma’s home cooking is better than the cheaper and faster McDonald’s, it doesn’t mean I won’t occasionally take advantage of it carefully and selectively.
Is AI good or bad? Should I avoid AI?
My personal opinion is that there’s no way that AI won’t be used for evil. It’s just human nature. So, AI can be both good and bad. A knife is a perfect example. It’s good on a dinner table, and bad in the hands of a killer.
For me, it boils down to my world view. Personally, I have a Biblical worldview and that makes things much clearer for me. It dictates how I will use it – for good, to help people. However, there will always be people seeking power and control. And there are serious concerns that ASI could get to a place where it attempts to take power and control. I know, it sounds like science fiction…as did airplanes to our ancestors! AI could easily become an idol to mankind. It’s not hard to imagine finding it difficult to live without the conveniences of AI once we get used to them. In fact, we might think we can’t bear to give it up. I don’t personally fear that because my worldview makes my choice crystal clear.
No matter where you currently stand on all this, AI is here, and we can do our best to understand it together. The scope of this show isn’t about a future we can’t control. I don’t believe that you or I can control the acceleration of AI. But we can focus on how it can help us in our research, and to help others.
Keep in mind the Silicon Valley saying that Vice-President Vance shared during his speech to the global AI Action Summit recently held in Paris, “If you aren’t paying for the product, you are the product.” I’ve said this myself when teaching about using Google and other technology. In other words, we may be tempted to only use free AI tools. However, we must keep in mind that nothing is free. We learned that with the evolution of Google, genetic genealogy, and many other forms of technology. Assume that what you are doing on free AI tools is public and once said can never be retracted. Keep an eye on the way various tools use your data. You get what you pay for.
Copilot’s Integration into Windows 11
The AI chatbot Copilot is now integrated with Windows 11 by default. You don’t need to download it separately. Use Alt + spacebar to open it wherever you’re working on your PC.
Family History Writing and Storytelling
Guest: Sunny Morton
In this conversation we discuss genealogy resources, storytelling techniques, and the impact of AI on writing in the genealogy field.
Resources mentioned:
• Get Sunny Morton’s book How to Find Your Family History in U.S. Church Records: A Genealogist’s Guide
• Watch the Genealogy Gems video class on Church Records with Sunny Morton (Premium)
• Genealogy Gems video class by Sunny Morton: Share Your Life Story in a More Meaningful Way (Premium)
• Genealogy Gems video class by Sunny Morton: Reconstructing Your Family’s Amazing Stories (Premium)
Takeaways:
• Storytelling is crucial for sharing family history effectively.
• Genealogists should focus on the stories that resonate with them personally.
• AI can serve as a helpful tool in genealogy writing. (Lisa will be covering these techniques in upcoming episodes.)
• Practicing storytelling can enhance engagement with family members.
• Finding the right hook is essential for captivating an audience.
• Genealogy writing should be concise and impactful.
• Understanding the historical context of ancestors enriches storytelling.
• Ethical considerations are important when using AI in genealogy.
Resources
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