But where does taste come from?

Taste is a complex concept, often defined as a sense of aesthetics and judgment derived from experience and intuition. It allows us to evaluate whether something is good or bad, without necessarily being able to explain the reasoning behind our preference. While some individuals, like Rick Rubin or Steve Jobs, seem to have exceptional taste and the power to shape the work of others, the reality is that developing taste requires hands-on experience and experimentation.

Generative AI tools, while helpful, cannot replace the need for personal practice and the occasional happy accident that can shape one's unique style. Using AI frequently can actually desensitize us to its flaws, making it harder to maintain our discerning taste. The author acknowledges that spending time working closely with established practitioners and reading widely can help develop a stronger sense of taste, but warns that relying too heavily on AI tools may lead to a loss of individuality and creativity.

Ultimately, the best defense against the homogenizing effects of AI-generated content is to produce work that stands out from the crowd and embraces one's unique artistic vision.