Category: Resistance

Resistance: what is it exactly?

To establish a shared language, let’s begin with the etymology of the word:

resistance (n.)

mid-14c., resistence, “moral or political opposition;” late 14c., “military or armed physical opposition by force; difficulty, trouble,” from Old French resistance, earlier resistence, and directly from Medieval Latin resistentia, from present-participle stem of Latin resistere “make a stand against, oppose” (see resist).

I’m also big on reframing. When I encounter a word or a statement, I try to find a way into them that holds meaning based on my social context and life’s experiences.

How is this definition landing for you?

Exploring resistance to AI began after feeling flattened by applications constantly humming in the background—whether on Amazon, a chatbot, or Netflix—offering narrow recommendations based on past behaviors, missing a new truism or change in the current moment.

Also I’ve been strongly encouraged to use ChatGPT to copywrite LinkedIn posts, which left me feeling some kinda way and, frankly, scoffing at the idea.

So why this resistance, Novelette? Isn’t AI supposed to make my life easier, more efficient; give me back time? I wouldn’t have to labor over a document that ChatGPT can produce in minutes.

I am less worried about potential job loss due to AI because I believe humans will always bring unique decision-making, creativity, empathy, and emotional intelligence to their work—qualities essential for building genuine connections and igniting innovations. And isn’t that what most of us are saying we want more of—feeling and being more connected and purpose-driven in our professional lives?

Yet, my main concern lies with the amplified biases and perpetuated stereotypes built into AI applications. That is where most of my resistance rests.

Tina Byles Williams writes every new technology has been met with suspicion and resistance because major technological change can amplify anxieties and the fear of loss or change. This resistance coexists with the alarms raised by the very creators of AI.

I see resistance as a signal, a call to pay attention to the dissonance felt deep within, not merely filtered through dogma. I frame this exploration around three Ps:

• Not personal: We all experience resistance; it is neither inherently good nor bad, but can signal an adaptation process when we become aware of it.
• Not permanent: With closer attention, we may experience a shift, from automatic default behaviors to an intentional, deliberative approach.
• Not perfect: Given the uncertainties of human existence, resistance reminds us to adapt as we navigate changing tides.

Much is being published about AI. Courses are offered by leading higher education institutions, and the top workforce trend is the increased use of AI. Ensuring that human values align with AI will be critical. Yet, since we are not monolithic, who decides what alignment means? That question further complicates how AI technology prioritizes humanity’s well-being and values.

Most of us have experienced resistance on a personal and social level, leaving us trembling when we cling too tightly or lash out to defend and protect. In those moments, might we approach this resistance with cool heads and warm hearts—with curiosity—to ensure the well-being of all, not just the few.

Resources read that informed the content of this blog:

• Unmasking AI
• Generative AI: Hope, Hubris, or Harrowing?
• These Women Tried to Warn Us About AI
• Introducing ChatGPT
• Burnout From Humans: A Little book about AI that is not really about AI
• Why People Resist Embracing AI
• Workplace Intelligence Forecast for 2025: The 10 Trends Businesses Need to Focus On
• The ways in which resistance is discussed
• Understanding and Working with Resistance