10 Thoughts On “AI,” February 2026 Edition

The evolving landscape of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is prompting reassessment across industries, including the creative sector. As of February 14, 2026, author John Scalzi outlines a series of observations regarding the current state and potential future of AI, particularly as it relates to his own work and the broader creative community.

A Firm Stance on AI in Creative Work

Scalzi has established a clear boundary: he will not use the term “AI” in his published work, citing concerns about copyright, contractual obligations, and a belief in his own creative superiority. He emphasizes that his novels originate solely from his own intellect and effort, offering readers a guarantee of human authorship.

The Threat to Novelists – and Why It’s Limited

Despite the ability to generate novel-length content using AI, Scalzi expresses limited concern about being replaced as a novelist. He argues that the sheer volume of AI-generated text flooding platforms like Kindle Unlimited will likely remain largely unread due to discoverability issues and a lack of marketing investment. He believes established authors with existing publishers and marketing support retain a significant advantage.

Did You Know? Microsoft recently acknowledged a consumer backlash against its aggressive integration of its “AI” Copilot into its products.

Consumer Fatigue and the Value of Authenticity

Scalzi notes a growing public disillusionment with AI, citing Microsoft’s recent adjustments to its business strategy in response to negative consumer feedback. He suggests that human-generated work benefits from a perception of authenticity and a greater capacity for surprise and engagement, particularly as consumers become wary of AI’s energy consumption and often underwhelming performance.

Supporting Human Artists

Scalzi actively supports human artists, stipulating that his book covers, translations, and copyediting are all performed by human professionals. He extends this commitment to his personal life, prioritizing the purchase of art created by humans and actively promoting human-created content. He acknowledges the ethical complexities of AI-generated art, particularly regarding the use of copyrighted material in training data.

The Persistence of AI – In Some Form

While acknowledging growing dissatisfaction, Scalzi anticipates that AI will likely persist in some capacity. He suggests that the current fervor surrounding AI may subside following an economic correction, but the underlying technologies will remain relevant. He notes that AI is often a marketing term encompassing a range of technologies, some of which are less ethically problematic than large-scale generative AI.

Expert Insight: The author’s assessment highlights a critical tension: the potential for AI to become deeply embedded in creative workflows, even as concerns about its ethical implications and artistic value intensify. This suggests a future where navigating the integration of AI tools requires careful consideration of both practical benefits and artistic integrity.

AI’s Inevitable Integration into Existing Tools

Scalzi points out that AI is increasingly integrated into commonly used software, such as Photoshop and Microsoft Word, making complete avoidance difficult. He suggests that the definition of “AI” is fluid and that the line between AI-assisted tools and fully AI-generated content is becoming increasingly blurred. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on the final product and the human element within it.

Staying Informed and Navigating Ethical Considerations

Scalzi advocates for staying informed about the evolving capabilities of AI, even while maintaining a critical perspective. He acknowledges that some individuals are compelled to use AI as a condition of employment, urging understanding rather than condemnation in such situations. He reiterates the importance of supporting human creativity and recognizing the unique value of human-generated art.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Scalzi’s primary reason for avoiding the use of “AI” in his work?

Scalzi states his primary reason is a belief that he writes better than “AI” can, and that using “AI” would create more work for him, not less.

According to Scalzi, what is the biggest challenge facing AI-generated content in the market?

Scalzi believes the biggest challenge is discoverability, noting that the vast amount of AI-generated text will likely remain unread due to a lack of marketing and promotion.

What does Scalzi predict about the long-term future of “AI”?

Scalzi predicts that “AI,” as a current economic and cultural phenomenon, is likely heading for a fall, but the underlying technologies will likely persist in some form.

As AI continues to evolve, how will creators balance the potential benefits of these tools with the preservation of human artistry and authenticity?