The March 22 Edition
There’s much fear around artificial intelligence (AI), especially its potential to eradicate jobs on an unprecedented scale, or even wipe out humanity if it leaps into the kind of rogue super-intelligence we see in sci-fi films. US President Donald Trump’s demolition of the first set of guardrails around AI, designed to keep this rapidly evolving technology controllable and responsible, will mean its intrusion into our daily lives will now be unchecked. Part of this charge: chatbots, now able to take the form of artificial companions, friends, therapists and even romantic partners. Sounds comforting and even fun? For sure, but writer Tim Elliott, who took a chatbot for a test run for today’s cover story, says there are perils beneath the breezy banter of a never-critical friend. “It pits the profit motive against the natural, human imperative for friendship and understanding,” notes Elliott. We also have to ask whether we actually need yet another echo chamber on top of social media to reinforce our own prejudices, tastes and view of the world. – Acting editor, Greg Callaghan.
‘You’re my favourite’: What I learnt during two weeks with Vida, my AI ‘companion’
It’s the latest stage of the AI revolution: people turning to chatbots for friendship, counselling and more. What happens when the virtual replaces the real?
- by Tim Elliott
Death threats, 3am texts: Former Liberal MP Matt Kean on becoming a climate champion
His stance on global warming has earned him powerful enemies – but the Climate Change Authority chair believes the stakes are too high to beat about the bush.
- by Anne Hyland
‘It would be easier not to know’: Kate Grenville’s eye-opening road trip
A niggling childhood memory sends the writer on a journey of discovery about her land-grabbing forefathers – and what she finds is deeply troubling for her.
- by Kate Grenville
The Melbourne teen tearaway now feted in Paris – and the NGV
Life-changing offers, a Provencal farmhouse and now, a retrospective at the National Gallery of Victoria: the charmed world of fashion designer Martin Grant.
- by By Marion Hume
Two of Us
Two of Us
Rawson faced horror as a teen; Hamish helped him feel safe. Then the roles reversed
Rawson Kirkhope and Hamish Young went to school together in Launceston. A shocking domestic-violence incident cemented their bond.
- by Tim Elliott
Author Torrey Peters on why her existence ‘terrifies some people’
The prize-winning novelist on the cruelty faced by trans people – and how opponents have used stories of detransitioning to ‘weaponise regret’.
- by Benjamin Law
I want to talk to my neighbour’s dog. Do I have to address the human?
As a dog-owner myself, I’m fully aware that my dog is the more interesting one, writes our Modern Guru.
- by Danny Katz
A standout local cast – and setting: Another Liane Moriarty novel hits the screen
Plus: get ready for the weekend with these fresh diversions.
- by Louise Rugendyke, Nicole Abadee, Damien Woolnough, Barry Divola and Dani Valent
This juicy blood plum cake with a sugary crust is the perfect balance of sweet ‘n’ sour
A sweet and tart cake perfect for afternoon tea.
- by Helen Goh
Review
Good Weekend
‘Olive oily, lemony, salty deliciousness’: This corner is a rollicking Greek party once more
Taverna was created in a hurry, but it’s instantly timeless, writes Dani Valent. And there’s a lot of Hellenic history here.
- by Dani Valent
Review
Eleven Barrack
This new two-hatted grill is so good, our critic booked it for his birthday
Eleven Barrack pushes beyond the usual surf-and-turf trappings to create a singular restaurant, complete with a baby grand and live pianist.
- by Callan Boys
Chablis or petit chablis − that is the question (and what’s the difference between the wines?)
The French wine isn’t necessarily inferior or “smaller” than the latter. Rather, it’s all about the soil.
- by Huon Hooke
Original URL: https://www.smh.com.au/national/the-march-22-edition-20250117-p5l56n.html