A study compares the creativity of artificial intelligence and humans
Scientists from the University of Montreal have conducted an experiment to evaluate how the creativity of artificial intelligence systems compares to that of people. To do this, they analyzed large language models and more than one hundred thousand volunteers. 🤖🧠
The test that measures inventiveness
The core of the research was to apply the Divergent Associations Test (DAT). In this exercise, both machines and participants had to generate ten different words within a maximum time limit of four minutes. The objective was to measure the ability to process and link concepts in an original way.
Key results from the analysis:- On average, AI models outperformed humans in this specific task.
- This demonstrates that machines can associate information very efficiently in defined contexts.
- However, the picture is not so simple, and important nuances emerge.
High-level human creativity maintains advantages in certain aspects that current models do not fully replicate.
The most ingenious humans maintain the lead
Despite the good average result of AI, the study reveals crucial data. Almost half of the people with the best performance in the test achieved higher scores than the artificial systems. Additionally, the top 10% of participants obtained significantly superior results.
What this implies:- Exceptional human creativity still possesses unique qualities.
- Current AI models cannot fully emulate these peaks of inventiveness.
- The machine presents itself as a powerful tool, not as a total replacement.
Evaluating creativity: a complex challenge
The researchers conclude that measuring creativity is an intricate process. Winning in a specific test, such as generating associated words, does not equate to being able to replace human creative thinking in all its extent. This involves processes like intuition, emotional experience, and the ability to connect ideas from very disparate domains, areas where people still excel. Perhaps the next test should include inventing original excuses for being late, a field where humans are undisputed champions. 😉