A while ago, I posted a question on LinkedIn: “How do employers view a CV written with AI compared to one written without it?” The question was meant to spark a dialogue that would hopefully encourage more critical and conscious use of AI. The feedback was limited to a few impressions and did not spark much discussion. This article expands on my question, but it neither judges nor praises AI; rather, it is just a call for reflection amid the academic chaos that is gradually losing its original track, particularly in writing. In the world of art, the authenticity/originality of a professional’s work determines the preservation of his reputation, self-respect, and intellectual property; therefore, AI should be carefully considered when using it.
The Writing Process, one of the many training courses I have delivered over the years. As an instructor, freelance writer, and engineer, I often ask myself: How can a writer publish his work with AI support and then sign it as his own?! Likewise, how can a professor accept and grade a student’s paper written with AI? Or how far can a magazine go in manipulating its photos with the help of AI? Moreover, is it acceptable to let AI tailor a job seeker’s CV and cover letter? Even more astonishing, how can a simple application on one’s phone create an entire book under that person’s name?
When it comes to creativity in writing, painting, photography, or any other form of artistic expression that requires a personal touch: word choice, style, tone, wit, structure, emotions, and composition, AI tools must be considered artificial, plagiarized, or simply a deceptive performance, where only readers or viewers who lack a keen eye for authenticity and finesse may fully admire such a production.
Surprisingly enough, LinkedIn itself offers AI assistance to its subscribers to improve their CVs, cover letters, and other application materials. I still wonder how ethical it is for a job seeker to rely on AI to land a job. Even more concerning is how employers accept such applications without questioning the applicant’s integrity, honesty, and capability! Take this article, for instance: how would you, as a reader, perceive it if I had used AI to tailor and polish it rather than using my many years of experience, hard work, and talent? There is no doubt that AI can improve my technical writing and elevate the language to a more sophisticated level, but would you still hold the same respect for my creativity and authorship if AI performed my work? And if so, can I claim intellectual property to that article? Personally, I can’t possibly sign my name at the bottom as the writer if it were.
I can understand that, outside the educational and creative publication sectors, AI serves as a powerful tool for companies operating in highly competitive business and industrial environments. Economic efficiency and profit are the priorities. It goes without saying that AI can save time, reduce costs, conduct deeper analyses, and support more profitable decision-making. However, when it comes to publication, using AI may damage the writer’s reputation and integrity.
In conclusion, use AI in business and trade if necessary, but do it with awareness. When it comes to art, publication, and personal expression, you need to lean on your own skills and human touch if you are going to put your name to it, even when relying on AI is too easy and tempting.
Eng. Naji Haddad
