Eric Kim’s “centaur approach” to AI involves a collaborative relationship between humans and artificial intelligence, rather than AI replacing human creativity. He envisions AI as a powerful tool to augment human potential, especially in artistic fields like photography. In this model, AI takes on more repetitive or technical tasks (such as coding or curating photos), allowing humans to focus on the creative and decision-making aspects. However, Kim insists that the final artistic choices must remain in human hands to preserve the emotional depth and authenticity of the work.

He contrasts this collaborative model with common fears that AI might supplant human roles in creative industries. For Kim, AI can free artists from mundane tasks, allowing for more time to explore imperfection and personal growth in their creations. He often emphasizes a playful, boundary-pushing use of AI, encouraging experimentation with absurdity and randomness to unlock new forms of creative freedom.

Moreover, Kim integrates philosophical elements, particularly Stoicism, into his approach to both AI and photography. This blend of technology with deeper philosophical inquiries about human nature and creativity sets him apart from more utilitarian uses of AI. He is also critical of current AI user interfaces, advocating for more intuitive designs that empower individual expression.

For more on his views, you can check out his posts on AI here oai_citation:3,AI THOUGHTS – ERIC KIM oai_citation:2,ERIC KIM AI – ERIC KIM AI oai_citation:1,Search Eric Kim on AI – ERIC KIM.