I recently came across a long article on Substack that caught my attention, titled “We Have AGI at Home” by Knower. The article delves into the current state of interactions between humans and large language models (LLMs), particularly through apps like Character AI. It made me pause and reflect on how AI has subtly integrated into our lives—not in the grand, futuristic way many envision, but in the quiet, mundane corners of emotional connection and entertainment.

For me, this topic touches on a broader question I’ve been wrestling with: what does it mean to be human in an increasingly digital world? As someone who has spent a lot of time navigating personal growth while exploring AI and digital technologies, this intersection of tech and human connection feels both fascinating and unsettling.

The Allure of AI Companionship

Knower points out a concerning trend: people developing emotional, even romantic, bonds with AI chatbots. While it may seem bizarre at first glance, it’s not surprising when you consider the societal context. Many of us, especially those in younger generations, have grown up immersed in technology, often turning to digital spaces for comfort and connection.

I can relate to this in a different context. Reflecting on my struggles with social anxiety and introversion, digital tools have sometimes felt like a safer space to express myself without fear of judgment. Yet, there’s a fine line between healthy interaction and digital dependency—a line that apps like Character AI blur effortlessly.

TikTok and the Erosion of Authentic Social Interaction

Knower also critiques the influence of platforms like TikTok in shaping a culture where fleeting digital interactions replace meaningful conversations. This resonated with me deeply. I’ve written before about my efforts to reclaim control over my screen time. The constant dopamine hits from endless scrolling make real-life social interactions feel slow and unrewarding by comparison. It’s no wonder that AI chatbots, which offer instant responses tailored to our needs, have become so appealing.

But what are we losing in the process? The ability to sit with discomfort, to engage in unfiltered human connection. It’s something I’ve had to relearn through intentional practices like journaling, mindfulness, and even retreating to a monastery for a brief period.

Do We Need Better AI—or Just Better Relationships?

Knower raises an important point: the existing models are “good enough” for most people. The question isn’t whether LLMs will get better—they undoubtedly will—but whether we should continue to lean on them for things that only humans can truly offer: empathy, unpredictability, genuine presence.

This ties into something I’ve been reflecting on a lot lately: the tension between stability and freedom. As AI becomes more integrated into our lives, the challenge isn’t just technological—it’s personal. How do we maintain our sense of agency when it’s so easy to let machines fill the gaps?

A Call for Intentional Digital Living

Rather than fear the rise of AI, I believe we need to rethink our relationship with technology. Can we use it as a tool to enhance creativity, not replace it? Can we foster digital spaces that encourage real growth, not just passive consumption?

For me, this means continuing to explore AI and crypto with a critical, curious mindset. It means being intentional about when I engage with technology and when I step back to reconnect with the real world. And perhaps most importantly, it means embracing the discomfort of being human in an increasingly digitized world.

Closing Thoughts

Knower’s post left me with more questions than answers—a sign of a great piece. As we move further into 2025, it feels like we’re standing at a crossroads. We have the tools to build a more connected world, but we need to choose how we use them. Will we opt for convenience at the cost of authenticity? Or will we find a way to integrate AI into our lives without losing what makes us human?

It’s a choice we all have to make, one mindful moment at a time.

What I read today:

This is the original article I wrote my thoughts about.

What I saw today:

Today, I watched an insightful video from CoinBureau discussing global crypto adoption trends, and one segment really caught my attention: the analysis of blockchain awareness in Germany. As someone living here, I wasn’t entirely surprised by the results: Germany ranked as one of the most blockchain-skeptical countries, with only 25% of respondents correctly identifying what a blockchain is! Interestingly, 27% outright rejected its potential in mitigating AI-related risks. This skepticism, combined with the government’s decision to sell off a significant Bitcoin stash earlier this year, reflects a cautious, perhaps overly wary approach to crypto. It left me wondering how long it will take for broader awareness to shift, especially as digital finance continues evolving globally.

What I listened to today:

What I liked today:

What I learned today:

Agents vs Workflows

Workflow: Systems where LLMs and tools are orchestrated through predefined code paths.

Agent: Systems where LLMs dynamically direct their own processes and tool usage, maintaining control over how they accomplish tasks.

That’s it for today! ☺️

_{This article represents my work and perspective, developed with research and writing assistance from using AI.}