In this reflective piece, author u/TangerineDream explores the complex, contradictory relationship between software professionals and Large Language Models (LLMs). While acknowledging the significant potential for increased productivity and the rapid development of new products, the author expresses a profound visceral dislike for the technology based on direct interaction. This dissatisfaction stems from the "uncanny valley" effect of the LLM's communicative style and its tendency to provide confident, hallucinated information—often accompanied by superficial apologies when errors are identified. The author highlights a paradox noted by Jessica Kerr: despite their flaws, these models are so thorough and fast that failing to use them could be considered irresponsible. This tension is mirrored in public sentiment, where users find models useful yet view them as potentially detrimental to society. Furthermore, the author argues against anthropomorphizing AI agents as conscious entities, instead characterizing them as software machines that inherently reflect the values and worldviews of their corporate developers, specifically citing concerns regarding Silicon Valley subcultures. Ultimately, the author compares the experience of interacting with LLMs to avoiding untrustworthy individuals, noting that the models' pretense of human-like interaction, combined with their lack of genuine integrity, creates a grating user experience.

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