Trump's Linguistic Dislike for "Artificial Intelligence"

07/24/2025
During a recent artificial intelligence summit in Washington D.C., former President Donald Trump voiced a peculiar point of contention regarding the widely accepted term \"artificial intelligence.\" His remarks shed light on a unique perspective concerning the designation of advanced technological capabilities.

A Matter of Semantics: When \"Artificial\" Doesn't Cut It

The President's Pronouncement on AI Terminology

At the Washington D.C. AI Summit, former President Donald Trump delved into various aspects of artificial intelligence, a topic of global discussion. However, amidst his discourse, a distinct point of discomfort for him emerged: the very name \"artificial intelligence.\" He openly declared his aversion to the term, stating that he \"can't stand it\" and advocating for a change.

Rejection of the "Artificial" Label: A Quest for a More Fitting Description

With an emphatic gesture, Trump articulated his dissatisfaction with the word \"artificial,\" emphasizing his belief that nothing genuinely intelligent should be categorized as such. He asserted that the essence of AI is not artificiality but rather \"pure genius,\" implying a need for a more accurate and appreciative descriptor that reflects its profound capabilities.

Exploring Alternative Nomenclature for Advanced Computation

While the former President did not put forth a new name for artificial intelligence, several existing alternatives such as machine learning, neural networks, or thinking computers could serve as substitutes. The ongoing proliferation of the term \"AI\" has led to its application to a wide array of products, some with questionable claims of genuine AI features, as exemplified by a smart pillow designed to adjust to snoring.

A Broader Context: Consistency in the Dislike of the "Artificial"

Trump's general disdain for anything he perceives as \"artificial\" may seem to be at odds with some of his past policy decisions, such as his administration's actions to lessen regulations on genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Yet, his strong feelings on the AI terminology remain consistent with this underlying preference. It prompts a fascinating discussion on how prominent figures' personal linguistic preferences might influence the public perception and future naming conventions of rapidly evolving technologies.

Seeking a New Lexicon for Tomorrow's Innovations

The former leader's open challenge to the term \"artificial intelligence\" invites a broader conversation. As technology progresses towards concepts like artificial general intelligence (AGI) and \"superintelligence,\" the debate over suitable terminology becomes increasingly relevant. The query now extends to all, inviting suggestions for a new name that truly encompasses the extraordinary nature of these computational marvels, transcending the perceived limitations of the word \"artificial.\"