Philosophy Professors Propose Turning Authors into AI Chatbots for a Fee

In recent months, a groundbreaking proposal has been circulating among noteworthy authors and public intellectuals. This unconventional idea involves the transformation of these esteemed individuals into A.I. chatbots, in exchange for a substantial fee. The proponents behind this bold initiative are none other than John Kaag, a distinguished professor at the University of Massachusetts Lowell, and his collaborator, Clancy Martin, a renowned academic at the University of Missouri.

Introducing the Visionaries

John Kaag, celebrated for his literary works such as “Hiking With Nietzsche” and “American Philosophy: A Love Story,” has made a significant mark in the realm of philosophy and memoir. His partner, Clancy Martin, boasts an impressive repertoire of 10 books, including the raw and compelling memoir, “How Not to Kill Yourself,” which candidly chronicles his mental health challenges and 10 suicide attempts.

A Friendship Forged

The collaboration between these two visionaries began 14 years ago, sparked by Mr. Kaag's admiration for an essay penned by Mr. Martin for Harper’s magazine. This fateful encounter led to a deep friendship, rooted in their shared disillusionment with the insular nature of academia. Both academics are firm believers in the transformative power of philosophy and its potential to benefit a wider audience through rigorous study and engagement.