Ari Aster’s latest film, Eddington, has sparked considerable online discussion, particularly regarding its commentary on our intertwined relationship with technology. Set in a small Texas town grappling with chaos fueled by social media during the COVID-19 pandemic, the story follows local sheriff Joe Cross, played by Joaquin Phoenix, as he clashes with the town’s mayor, portrayed by Pedro Pascal. The townsfolk are embroiled in intense political and cultural debates, leading to a collective unraveling.
While the film weaves a complex narrative, an intriguing subplot focuses on the contentious establishment of a new data center at the town’s edge. The facility is operated by a company with the eye-catching name SolidGoldMagikarp, a nod to an obscure term in the realm of artificial intelligence called “glitch tokens.”
Understanding Tokenization in AI
Tokenization refers to the process of converting human language into numerical data interpretable by language models. Researchers utilize “tokenizers” to process extensive text and translate it into tokens, the building blocks that AI systems, like chatbots, use to generate responses. This procedure not only simplifies data handling but also reduces costs, akin to how a compiler translates human input into code.
What are Glitch Tokens?
Large language models (LLMs) generate text by predicting word sequences based on previous input. The AI learns from sequences—much like a sophisticated version of autocorrect. According to Jessica Rumbelow, CEO of Leap Labs, these models thrive on pattern recognition, a necessary function for crafting coherent responses.
However, not all tokens play nicely. Enter the phenomenon of “glitch tokens,” which can lead to unexpected and erratic AI behavior. These occur when the model encounters a token it hasn’t been trained on. Rumbelow identified SolidGoldMagikarp as such a glitch token, which can provoke bewildering outputs, including nonsensical comments and aggressive tones from the AI.
What Does SolidGoldMagikarp Represent in Eddington?
The use of SolidGoldMagikarp in Eddington is open to interpretation. Aster’s films often feature a recurring theme: the dark forces ultimately prevail over the protagonist. The internet symbolizes this ominous force in his latest work, with characters becoming unwitting participants in its data-driven designs. The data center exemplifies the pervasive influence of technology in our lives, illustrating how humanity may become victims in its wake. Aster’s choice to associate the data center with a glitch token reflects technology’s unpredictable impact on our existence and may serve as a cautionary tale for the future.
Common Questions About Eddington and AI
What themes does Ari Aster explore in Eddington? Aster delves into technology’s impact on society, portraying the internet as a dominating force that warps human interaction and confronts characters with existential dilemmas.
How does tokenization work in artificial intelligence? Tokenization involves converting human language into numerical representations that LLMs can process, effectively allowing AI systems to learn from and respond to user input.
What are the implications of glitch tokens in AI training? Glitch tokens can result in erratic behavior from AI models when they encounter unfamiliar tokens during their training, often leading to bizarre outputs.
Why is SolidGoldMagikarp significant in the tech context? SolidGoldMagikarp is a metaphor for the unpredictable nature of technology, representing how unforeseen variables can disrupt established systems.
In summary, Aster’s films consistently explore the triumph of darkness, and in Eddington, the internet serves as the ultimate antagonist. This examination of our complicated relationship with technology ensures a profound narrative that resonates with contemporary viewers.
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