ChatGPT for Writers: Ethical Dilemma or Game-Changer?
A writer friend recently asked me, “Don’t you think using ChatGPT is cheating?”
I get where she’s coming from—I’ve had similar thoughts. But I no longer feel guilty about using AI (with discretion) as a content creator and writer, and here’s why…
People with money or connections have been using those advantages to get their messages out for centuries—sometimes even spreading hate or fear. Ghostwriters have been around forever (and likely getting severely underpaid). Famous male authors used to rely on their female partners to help them write, only to take all the credit. Today, your ideas can be heard, but only if you can afford a writing coach, PR team, and editor or if you have the cash to buy followers so a publishing house takes you seriously. The system is rigged, and I’m tired of the gatekeeping that the publishing industry holds so tightly.
AI is leveling the playing field. It gives artists and creators access to tools that were once only available to the lucky or the elite. If you don’t use it, someone else will—maybe even to spread misinformation or hateful ideas. Not using AI won’t make it disappear. It will just ensure that your ideas and experiences stay in the dark. And that would be a real shame.
I love that National Novel Writing Month recently embraced AI in a positive light in WIRED Magazine. I, too, believe AI can help break down the gatekeeping in the art and publishing worlds.
—> Read the WIRED article here
—> Head here to read 3 Benefits and 3 Limitations to Using Chat GPT
As an artist, it’s never really been 100% about *what* you create—bu about *who* you know and *how much* money you have. Expensive software, materials, marketing, editors, ghostwriters, conferences, producers… it all adds up. Like many artists and writers, I’ve faced countless challenges. These days, a publishing house or agent won’t even look at a new writer unless they already have a massive social media following. Professional editors and writing coaches I’ve contacted have quoted me thousands of dollars to review a manuscript or guide my project. The same happened when I approached illustrators for my oracle deck.
A lot of artists are up in arms about AI in the creative space, but honestly, I see it as a tool—a tool that helps elevate creative ideas in a way that money and connections have always done for the famous.
So, if you don’t want to use AI for your creative work, that’s totally fine. But please step aside for those of us who can’t afford to spend $10,000+ on a ghostwriter, editor, or PR specialist to get our message out.
And to all the women, queer folk, and BIPOC creators out there—please, please, please enlist the help of AI to share your experiences with a broader audience! I’m tired of reading history only through the lens of privileged white men who have the resources to buy their way into the conversation. It’s time for new voices to be heard.
