Source URL: https://simonwillison.net/2025/Jul/3/adam-gordon-bell/#atom-everything
Source: Simon Willison’s Weblog
Title: Quoting Adam Gordon Bell
Feedly Summary: I think that a lot of resistance to AI coding tools comes from the same place: fear of losing something that has defined you for so long. People are reacting against overblown hype, and there is overblown hype. I get that, but I also think there’s something deeper going on here. When you’ve worked hard to build your skills, when coding is part of your identity and where you get your worth, the idea of a tool that might replace some of that is very threatening.
— Adam Gordon Bell, When AI Codes, What’s Left for me?
Tags: llms, careers, ai, generative-ai, ai-assisted-programming
AI Summary and Description: Yes
Summary: The text reflects on the emotional and psychological resistance to AI coding tools, particularly in the context of LLMs (Large Language Models) and generative AI. It highlights how the fear of obsolescence and the impact on personal identity for developers influence their reception of these technologies.
Detailed Description: The passage offers insight into the complex relationship between AI technologies and the people who work within the software industry, particularly coders. It brings to light several critical points regarding the resistance to AI coding tools:
– **Fear of Obsolescence**: Many developers feel threatened by AI tools that may diminish their role or render some of their skills less valuable.
– **Identity and Worth**: For many, coding is not just a job but a significant part of their identity and self-worth. The prospect of AI taking over certain tasks can lead to existential concerns about their professional future.
– **Overblown Hype**: There exists skepticism surrounding the effectiveness and transformative potential of AI tools, which contributes to the negative reception. Some individuals are reacting to exaggerated claims about AI’s capabilities.
The discussion is relevant for professionals in AI and software security as it underscores the need to consider the human factors associated with the adoption of AI technologies. Understanding this resistance can lead to better implementation strategies that address the emotional and psychological concerns of developers, ultimately fostering a healthier integration of AI tools in the coding environment.
– **Implications for Software Security**: By recognizing and addressing these fears, organizations can create support structures that help teams adapt to new tools and processes, which is essential for maintaining security and compliance in code development.
This analysis emphasizes the importance of not only focusing on technology’s capabilities but also on the societal and emotional ramifications of AI integration into traditional industries like software development.