Artificial Intelligence (“AI”) has recently gained more notoriety and popularity with the launch of several new applications. I asked one about razors.
Artificial Intelligence
If you’re interested in technology topics you have probably read about the growth of AI applications over the past couple of years. Apps like ChatGPT, Google Bard, and Claude have generated a lot of interest for their ability to absorb mountains of information and have natural language “conversations” about topics with users.
ChatGPT is probably the most established and well-known AI application. I asked ChatGPT to briefly describe itself:
Please give a short summary of yourself.
The response:
I am ChatGPT, a sophisticated language model created by OpenAI, powered by the GPT-3.5 architecture. As of my last update in January 2022, I represent one of the latest advancements in natural language processing. My primary function is to understand and generate human-like text based on the input I receive.
With a vast amount of training data encompassing diverse sources from the internet, books, and more, I possess a broad understanding of numerous topics up until my knowledge cutoff in early 2022. My training enables me to engage in conversations, answer questions, assist with problem-solving, and generate creative content across various domains.
I operate on the principles of machine learning and rely on patterns learned during training to produce contextually relevant and coherent responses. I don’t have personal experiences, emotions, or consciousness. Instead, I draw upon the extensive data I’ve been exposed to in order to provide information and generate text that aligns with the input I receive.
The Question
So I asked ChatGPT:
“What kind of modern razor most closely combines the best features of razors throughout history?”
The Answer
Design preferences for razors can be highly subjective, and what works best for one person may not work as well for another. However, if we were to consider combining the best features of razors throughout history, it would involve looking at aspects such as:
Blade Technology:
Modern precision and sharpness: High-quality, sharp blades for a smooth shave.
Adjustable settings: Like some vintage safety razors that allow users to adjust the blade exposure for a customized shave.
Handle Design:
Ergonomic handle: Comfortable to hold for extended periods.
Material: Durable and possibly featuring a good grip surface.
Ease of Use:
Cartridge or safety razor design: Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the convenience of cartridge razors, while others appreciate the classic feel of a safety razor.
Versatility:
Compatibility with different blades: Allowing users to choose between various blade types for a personalized shaving experience.
Trimmer or additional features:
Some modern razors come with built-in trimmers for detailing or grooming facial hair.
Durability:
Choosing materials that resist corrosion and wear over time.
Maintenance:
Easy to clean: A design that doesn’t trap hair and is simple to disassemble for cleaning.
Rust-resistant:
Materials that resist corrosion and rust.
Affordability:
Balancing high-quality materials and construction with a reasonable price.
Aesthetics:
A classic or stylish design that appeals to a broad range of users.
Conclusion:
Considering these factors, a high-quality, adjustable safety razor with modern blade technology, an ergonomic handle, and additional features like a trimmer might be a good starting point. However, individual preferences may vary, and what works best for one person may not work as well for another. It’s often a good idea to try different razors and techniques to find what suits you best.
Discussion
So artificial intelligence suggests a modern adjustable safety razor as the razor that combines the best aspects of razors through history? By coincidence I recently wrote about the best modern adjustable safety razors.
Which adjustable safety razor “ticks the most boxes” for the items listed above? Personally, I would suggest either the Parker Adjustable Injector (single edge) or the Yaqi “Final Cut” (double edge).
What do you think? Leave a comment below!
Agree with Goldweber. ChatGPT pretty much summarizes the views of most recent online sources. It will be interesting to ask it the same question in fifteen years.
It is rare that my interest in wet shaving and my profession as a computer science professor collide, but this article hit the sweet spot.
It is not coincidence that ChatGPT’s recommendations were ambiguous. It did not make a concrete recommendation, but instead provided an enumeration of desirable qualities. Basically any current LLM (Large Language Model, of which ChatGPT is an example of) simply correlates all the data one can find online. It can, in this case, basically provide a high-level summary of everything currently available on the Web on the topic.
There are a lot of “what to look for” articles, including some excellent ones on Sharpologist. ChatGPT just provided a high-level summary of all of them.