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The Human Voice with Bob HutchinsAuthor: Bob Hutchins
Bob Hutchins- Digital Marketing OG, Cultural and media theorist, and Organizational Psychologist talks about all things human and restorative. Tech, Psychology, Spirituality, Change, Mental and Social Well Being. Language: en Genres: Society & Culture, Technology Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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When Machines Imitate Art: What a 1930s Philosopher Saw Coming
Episode 49
Wednesday, 9 July, 2025
In this episode, I step back from the hype and headlines around generative AI to reflect on something deeper: what’s actually happening to our experience of art, creativity, and meaning when machines start making things that feel human. I draw from the work of 1930s philosopher Walter Benjamin—who never saw a chatbot or image model in his life, but somehow understood the psychological and cultural impact of machine-made creativity with stunning clarity. What’s lost when everything becomes a copy Why “aura” and authenticity still matter The shift from ritual to exhibition in creative work What the Jason Allen AI art controversy reveals about our values How new forms of creative labor are emerging—and what that means for writers, artists, educators, and makers Why transparency might matter more than purity in a world of machine collaboration This isn’t a takedown or a celebration of AI. It’s a reflection. A pause. A reminder that we’re not just building tools—we’re reshaping what it means to be human. If you’re a teacher, a marketer, a business leader, a parent, or just someone trying to stay grounded in a rapidly changing world—this one's for you. Resources Mentioned: Walter Benjamin, The Work of Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction The 2022 Colorado State Fair AI art controversy Stephen Marche’s AI-assisted novella Death of an Author Artwork- James Allen’s - Théâtre D'opéra Spatial Stay Connected: Want more thoughtful takes like this? Subscribe to the Substack → https://bobhutchins.substack.com Or find me on LinkedIn → linkedin.com/in/bobhutchins Let’s keep asking better questions. —Bob Hutchins
