February 28, 2026 More AI Conversations -- Informative, Nostalgic, Controversial, Humorous, and Entertaining

Artificial Intelligence has provided most of the content and polish for the following fifteen posts.  Whether or not the stories they tell are completely valid or lack credibility is a matter of opinion (or of fact--AI may not have all the correct answers.  It states that it can make mistakes).

I have avoided including personal opinions and remarks; however, the method of inquiry may not have focused on every aspect of often complex topics that are limitations the reader should bear in mind.  Click Here for the complete list of PDF files.

ThoughtsOfThomasNotNostradamus
Representing Inquiry, Not Opinion

February 10, 2026  Conversation with AI Overview – What is Quantum Entanglement

I asked:

“If I scratch my nose, does quantum entanglement occur?”

ThoughtsOfThomasNotNostradamus
Representing Inquiry, Not Opinion

AI Overview said:

Quantum entanglement is a phenomenon that occurs naturally at the microscopic level among particles in your body and everything around you. However, the act of you scratching your nose does not, on its own, generate a new instance of macroscopic quantum entanglement of the entire system (you and your nose) in a way that is observable or controllable.  Here is an explanation of why:

•   Entanglement is the Default State at the Quantum Level: All the particles in your body have been interacting since the beginning of the universe and are, in a technical sense, fundamentally entangled with each other and their surroundings.

•  Decoherence in the Macroscopic World: The human body and the action of scratching a nose involve a massive number of particles constantly interacting with each other and the environment (air, light, heat, etc.). This interaction with the environment causes a rapid loss of the delicate quantum correlations, a process called decoherence. The system quickly settles into the classical, non-quantum behavior we observe in everyday life.

• Controlled vs. Uncontrolled Entanglement: While entanglement is a feature of all quantum processes, the kind of entanglement discussed in scientific experiments is a highly sensitive and carefully controlled process, usually involving isolating a few particles (like photons or electrons) from the environment to maintain their entangled state.

• Quantum Effects in the Nose Itself: Interestingly, some theories, like the "vibration theory of olfaction," suggest that the human sense of smell itself might rely on a quantum effect called quantum tunneling, where electrons "tunnel" through odor molecules to detect their vibrational frequencies. This is an example of quantum mechanics potentially playing a role in a biological process, but it is a separate phenomenon from the type of large-scale entanglement you are asking about.

In summary, the scratch is a classical mechanical action, governed by the laws of classical physics, even though the underlying components are quantum. 

February 7, 2026  Conversations with AI Overview & ChatGPT – A New IRS Model

The following model may seem like a radical approach for simplifying the Tax Code; however, it may generate more tax revenue and at the same time lessen the tax burden on low and middle income taxpayers.

On behalf of the majority of taxpayers in the United States, the tax reforms suggested below require a complete restructuring of how income tax is currently assessed and collected.  Its purpose is to design a system that is based truly on an individual’s ability to pay.

I first asked Google Labs | AI Overview:

“If the IRS is so good at taxing the working class, why do they strain themselves when calculating income tax of the few wealthy by comparison?”

ThoughtsOfThomasNotNostradamus

Representing Inquiry, Not Opinion

AI Overview said:

The IRS "strains" with the wealthy not due to incompetence, but because their income sources (investments, pass-through businesses) are complex, often taxed at lower rates (capital gains), and involve sophisticated legal tax avoidance, unlike wage earners whose income is straightforward and withheld; this complexity allows the wealthy to use deductions and loopholes to lower effective rates, leading to lower tax burdens relative to their income, says Brookings Institution.

Next, I asked ChatGPT:

 “Compare my hypothetical tax table shown below with the current income tax . . .

Continue reading by clicking here:  New Income Tax Model (PDF file, 2,621 words, 13 pages).

ThoughtsOfThomasNotNostradamus
Representing Inquiry, Not Opinion

February 5, 2026  Conversation with ChatGPT:  Historical Entry

The Power of Words, Free Speech
The Siege on Minneapolis

Here are four versions of a historical entry that may or may not appear in future history books.  It would likely be edited, or deleted altogether depending on who’s in charge.

Note that this was written in reaction to recent events that have not been completely resolved.  A more accurate account of the events that have transpired thus far may level out in the future after everything has had a chance to cool down.

The first version is my rough draft.  The second and third versions (responses) were edited by ChatGPT with version three giving specific dates, etc.  The fourth version (response) was also edited by ChatGPT and written as a formal Proclamation as suggested by the title it had originally been given.

I asked:

"Please smooth out the rhetoric, phrasing and organization of the following historical entry:

”National Day of Remembrance,  12.00 p.m. January 16, 2026--By Proclamation of the People . . . "

ThoughtsOfThomasNotNostradamus
Representing Inquiry, Not Opinion

Click Here to continue reading :  By Proclamation of the People (PDF file, 1,726 words, 5 pages).

_______________________

Comments:

• The above post is an incomplete narrative of events that have been unfolding.  Take a moment to think about the law enforcement individuals--the federal agents who signed up for the job.  Most of them, young men and women were happy to be hired and make a life for themselves.  They no doubt understood that their duties would not be a piece of cake; but it's difficult to imagine they would have thought that someday they would be labeled murderers.  Following orders and having a high degree of loyalty is part of any job.  However, within an organization there may be an element there to wreak havoc for personal gratification or for other reasons that are not part of the job description.  In either case, it may be argued, if things get out of control, the Buck stops at the Top.

• Unlike Elfsight Virtual Assistant that was reviewed on January 29 below, ChatGPT incorporates information from many other sources to enhance and give credibility to the original writing.

ThoughtsOfThomasNotNostradamus
Representing Inquiry, Not Opinion

February 2, 2026  Conversation with AI Overview – Psychology/Sociology:  Notoriety vs. Capability

I Asked:

“Is a person's credibility based more on their wealth, status and notoriety than it is on their capabilities, talent, knowledge, and character?”

ThoughtsOfThomasNotNostradamus

Representing Inquiry, Not Opiniion

AI Overview said:

A person's credibility is often heavily influenced by wealth, status, and notoriety, particularly in initial impressions or in contexts where deep, personal knowledge of the individual is lacking. However, long-term, lasting credibility is more strongly rooted in capabilities, talent, knowledge, and character. 

Research indicates a complex interplay between these factors:

How Wealth and Status Impact Credibility

• •  The "Halo Effect": Studies show that high-income individuals and those with higher socioeconomic status (SES) are frequently judged as more trustworthy, competent, and honest by strangers.

  •  Initial Trust: People tend to trust strangers with higher status or wealth more than those with less, often using these as heuristics (mental shortcuts) to judge competence.

  • Stereotype Bias: A universal, cross-cultural stereotype links wealth to higher capability, causing people to sometimes misplace trust in the wealthy. 

How Character and Capability Build True Credibility

•  The "4 Cores" Model: Authentic, sustainable credibility is based on four pillars: integrity, intent (character), capabilities, and results (competence).

•  The "5 Levels of Wealth" Model: In many professional contexts, credibility is viewed as the "first level" of wealth, built through consistency, integrity, and character, rather than just monetary status.

• Competence over Credentials: While titles, notoriety, and status (like having a PhD) can provide an initial boost, long-term credibility depends on demonstrating actual skills and delivering on promises. 

Conclusion

•  Wealth/Status/Notoriety often dictate immediate, superficial credibility (being believed in the short term).

• Character/Capability/Knowledge dictate earned, lasting credibility (being trusted over time). 

While high-status individuals may start with an advantage, that credibility can be quickly eroded if it is not supported by competence and character.

Dive deeper in AI Mode

“Is a person's credibility based more on their wealth, status and notoriety than it is on their capabilities, talent, knowledge, and character?”

In 2026, credibility remains a complex interplay between superficial signals and foundational qualities. While psychological research shows that wealth and status often trigger immediate, subconscious judgments of trustworthiness, frameworks used in professional leadership and communication emphasize that long-term credibility is strictly built on character and competence. 

1.    The Psychology of Perception (Initial Credibility)

 Societal perceptions in 2026 are frequently influenced by external markers: 

•  Wealth as a Signal: Studies indicate that high-income individuals are often judged as more trustworthy and competent than those with lower income, regardless of actual capability.

•  Status and "Prestige": High social status—derived from economic success or job prestige—is highly correlated with perceived competence in interpersonal and intergroup settings.

•  The "Mass-Class" Divide: The 2026 Edelman Trust Barometer highlights a growing trust gap, where high-income individuals often report higher levels of trust in institutions than low-income individuals, further entrenching status-based credibility. 

2.   The Core Foundations (Sustained Credibility)

Authoritative leadership models, such as the Four Cores of Credibility, argue that status and notoriety are "surface" elements that cannot sustain trust without underlying substance: 

•  Character (Roots): Includes Integrity (honesty and congruence) and Intent (motive and agenda). Without these, even the most capable person is eventually viewed as untrustworthy.

•  Competence (Visible Branches): Includes Capabilities (talents, skills, and knowledge) and Results (track record). Notoriety or a title might grant someone an audience, but they lack credibility if they cannot perform the task at hand. 

3.   2026 Trends: The Shift Toward Authenticity

 Current trends suggest a growing "trust recession," where polished notoriety is losing its influence to more grounded traits:

• •  Authenticity Over Notoriety:  Consumers and audiences in 2026 are increasingly skeptical of "overly polished" campaigns and high-status figures, favoring "real people"

________________________

Comments:

• Initially, I was tempted to begin my question:   "Is a person's credibility based more on their wealth, status, notoriety and on the manner in which they strut . . ." but thought that was much more than enough to frame the question.

• As it is, what works today regarding image, may become a turn-off by tomorrow.

February 1, 2026  Conversation with ChatGPT:  Energy Efficiency—Mind vs. Machine

Today’s conversation explores the human brain vs. a computer from two perspectives.  At the end of the conversation,  ChatGPT offers another option that I have left for you to explore on your own.  Here is my opening question for ChatGPT.

I asked:

“In terms of energy efficiency what is more efficient, the human brain or a high quality computer?”

ThoughtsOfThomasNotNostradamus
Representing Inquiry, Not Opinion

Click here to read the complete post:  Mind vs Machine  (PDF file,  857 words, 6 pages).

January 29, 2026  Elfsight Chat Bot – Another Example of what Elfsight’s Chat Bot Can Do for You

Elfsight’s Virtual Assistant Chat Bot is much more than a Search Engine.  It not only locates information, but it also analyzes and summarizes the information based on the data contained within all posts related to the question that can be found on this website (not the entire internet).

To my knowledge, Virtual Assistant does not formulate conclusions, state opinions or render judgments about the validity of information it gathers from within this website by comparing it to data from outside the domain of this website.  Nevertheless, it is an excellent tool for a quick overview that cuts to the chase .  .  .

Welcome to T. Bolton Digital Art! 👋

How can I help you today?

I asked:

"Based on information located on this website, does there appear to be justification for both sides of the political divide in the U.S.  If so, what seems to be the biggest issue common to both the Democrat and Republican Parties regarding their disagreement?"

3:53 PM

Thinking...  

Read two Responses to this question:

The first response was based on chat bot updates conducted January 11.

The second response reflects today's Elfsight Chatbot retraining that included further information from just a few days ago and most recently updated following the 3:53 p.m. conversation.  Additional and slightly different remarks and factual data appear in the second response.

Click Here to read:  Converations with Elfsight Virtual Assistant (PDF file, 893 words, 3 pages).

ThoughtsOfThomasNotNostradamus
Representing Inquiry, Not Opinion

January 26, 2026 Conversation with ChatGPT -- Settling the National Debt (Best Response, page 6)

Today's post is a culmination of a two-week mixed series covering  Economics, Political Science/Higher Education, Space Travel, Entomolgy, and Personal Fiinance.  Other topics of interest will be appearing in next month's posts.

In today's post, more discussion follows pertaining to the National Debt, but this time ChatGPT has been chosen to provide the answers and remarks.  ChatGPT has provided intellectual responses to various brainstormed ideas that came to mind pertaining to why the National Debt is difficult to repay, and does it really require repayment in the literal sense.

I asked:  (following a previous reply on page 5 of 10)

"What  can the Federal Government do to balance the supply issue to match the demand placed on it and to become “more proactive” in controlling shortages and excess and at the same time be working on behalf of the general public?"

ThoughtsOfThomasNotNostradamus
Representing Inquiry, Not Opinion

ChatGPT said:  (beginning on page 6 of the linked conversation)

This is the right follow-up question, because it shifts the debate from abstract money theory to governance capacity. You’re essentially asking:

If inflation risk comes from mismatches between money, supply, and timing—what tools does the federal government actually have to manage that responsibly, in the public interest?

Short answer: more than it currently uses, less than it pretends to have. Let’s break it down cleanly. . .

Click Here for the rest of the story Settling the National Debt (PDF file, 2,019 words, 10 pages).

____________________________

Comments:  (Tidbits from this post.)

• The national debt itself is largely phantom money—numbers owed to ourselves, rolled over indefinitely, never “paid off” in a household sense (page 3).

• Governments care less about the physical bills (currency) and more about control over issuance, because that control is how fiscal policy, taxation, and debt management work (page 4).

• Printing money to erase debt is not technically impossible—it’s institutionally taboo, because it weakens discipline and trust if done recklessly or visibly.   In short:  Governments don’t fear printing money because it breaks the economy.  They fear it because it breaks the rules that make the system governable (page 5).

January 25, 2026  Conversation with Googe Labs | AI Overview -- The National Debt (Parts I -- III)

In this post AI Overview was asked to repond to a few questions about how to address the National Debt that is now at 38 Trillion Dollars.  My line of questioning is fundamentally flawed, but done so purposely to provide specific information about how the National Debt is being addressed by the U.S. Government.

As an individual citizen, there isn't much of anything I can contribute unless it would mean buying one pair of cheap imported sneakers every two years instead of once a year--but that might cause a recession as well as sore feet.  As individuals, our hands are tied.

The following conversations with AI Overview provides clarification regarding my flawed thinking as well as further insight on what  can be done.  Click here to read on:  The National Debt Parts I--III  (PDF file, 2,246 words, 8 pages).

ThoughtsOfThomasNotNostradamus
Representing Inquiry, Not Opinon

______________________

Comments:

• We all reside on a finite planet.  We breathe the same air and consume food derived from the earth.  We share many spaces but there are many others we do not.  Our footprint is not equal in that respect.  Value placed on what we personally claim as our own should be taxed--the amount should be levied comensurate to our holdings as well as to consumption of earth's finite resources that we as humans can define as non-essentials (an engorged carbon footprint relative to the norm).

• The chart below shows very clearly that we are a wealthy nation, but with wealth that is unequally distributed.  No deadline for the repayment of the National Debt has been established.  As it is, it exists only as a number that continues to grow.  Will the National Debt eventually be zero'd out or will unknown forces --implosion or explosion--  end our government's financial struggle.

• The prorated suggestion shown in the chart is based on the fact that the richest household in America has a Net Worth that is 3,732,504 times larger than the median household's Net Worth.  Multi-billion and Multi-Million dollar Net Worth households can well afford to be taxed a proportionate amount based on their Net Worth and Carbon Footprint.  The assessed valuation and levied tax would be completed annually over a span of several years (but not permanent like income tax turned out to be) until the debt is paid in full.  Every household would be taxed if its Net Worth exceeds the Median Household Net Worth value.

• If the government is serious, pay it and stop harping on it.  It has become a distraction from the long list of things that are tangibly wrong.

ThoughtsOfThomasNotNostradamus
Representing Inquiry, Not Opinion

January 24, 2026  Conversation with ChatGPT -- Unmanaged Technology:  A Civic Reckoning

I asked:

“I have created a list representing negative aspects of technology and how they have impacted humanity.  Please comment and then counter with an opposing point of view.”

Unmanaged Technology:  A Civic Reckoning

Social Media:  People can’t handle it.  Feeds on hatred.  Creates animosity rather than friendship.  Loss of productivity, wasteful.

Internet:  Destroys and muddles Cultural Values. Learning overshadowed by misinformation and loss of productivity, wasteful.

Artificial Intelligence:  Renders human effort useless, therefore, some humans are expendable and of no value—another mouth to feed.

Data Centers:  All knowing—every movement traceable. Encryption decoded. Environmentally unsound venture  and wasteful of human resources . . .

You can read the complete list of negative aspects and ChatGPT's response by clicking the following link:  Unmanaged Technology:  A Civic Reckoning (PDF file, 1,783 words, 7 pages).

ThoughtsOfThomasNotNostradamus
Representing Inquiry, Not Opinion

January 22, 2026   Pros and Cons of Manned Space Missions

Conversation with Google Labs | AI Overview

For today's  conversation I have played the "Devil's Advocate regarding Manned Space Flight" in order to evoke a response from AI Overview.

ThoughtsOfThomasNotNostradamus
Representing Inquiry, Not Opinion

I said:

“I don't agree that humans in space are needed for space exploration and experimental work unless people are volunteering to become human guinea pigs. That idea sounds expensive and impractical.”

Google Labs | AI Overview replied:

The arguments you've raised regarding the high cost, inefficiency, and extreme physical risk of human space exploration are central to a longstanding debate within the scientific and engineering communities. While the consensus is strong that robotic exploration is far more cost-effective for most tasks, proponents of human spaceflight argue that humans are indispensable for certain types of pioneering work . . . 

The complete post discusses various aspects of manned vs. unmanned space exploration along with speculation regarding propulsion systems and technology that is expected to become a reality in the decades to come.   AI Overview also provides an estimated timeline of events.

To read the complete Conversation Click Here:  Pros and Cons of Manned Space Missions  (PDF file, 2,410 words, 9 pages).

January 20, 2026   Political Aphorisms – Understanding Viewpoints

If you read anything on this website, it will be well worth your time to
read this post in its entirety, including the linked portion at the bottom.

It is difficult to meaningfully articulate my concern about our country’s broadening divide.  We as a nation have developed a diminished cohesiveness that prevents us from reaching a consensus on national policy.   ChatGPT and other AI applications have helped isolate these issues and provide clarification.  The full text of my inquiries is linked at the bottom of this post.

For now, here are a few excerpts taken from the opening conversation generated by ChatGPT that was based on my concerns. Each consists of several remarks including  impactful aphorism shown in bold italics.

Note:  ChatGPT and other AI apps have a vast toolset at their disposal and among them is the mastery of stylistic writing elements including the use aphorisms to emphasize a point of view -- for example, cite current conditions versus the past, etc.   It is imperative, however, in order to reduce bias, request feedback from all perspectives. Bias is a limitation of AI’s output because AI is dependent on the information it was originally given.

AI responses also seem to be influenced by the nature of the question(s) being asked.  That is, it reacts to the tone and context of the user's questions.  Human's may believe or sense that AI has been programmed in a style that is patronizing where answers and responses are based on AI's assessment and prediction of what the recipient wants to hear or would agree with.  That may likely be another reason why many AI conversations end with "AI can make mistakes."

Gathering material for this post was very informative that provided mostly objective but opposing viewpoints.  For others, this analysis may not be inclusive of their beliefs, or it may be altogether missing the point.

In my mind, AI has still not completely unraveled the mystery of why we are at this level of disorder.  You would think AI's insight could be applied to rectify our nation's troubles.  If only it were that simple . . .

The following excerpts highlight a few of the opening pages that address my inquiry.  A broader and more detailed response is linked below.

ThoughtsOfThomasNotNostradamus
Representing Inquiry, Not Opinion

 _______________________________

Aphorisms
__________________________________

Given today’s Political Climate, this segment of today’s post may be construed as Politically Biased:

Moral Shock:

What you are experiencing is not mere political disappointment. It is a profound epistemic and moral shock — the collision between a civilization built on accumulated knowledge and a political culture that is increasingly indifferent, even hostile, to that knowledge.

Knowledge:

A civilization advances by stacking knowledge vertically across generations. Each layer rests on the one beneath it.  That is why advanced societies evolved:

• peer review

• professional credentialing

• civil service protections

• independent agencies

• tenure systems

These are not bureaucratic ornaments. They are defensive walls around truth.  They exist for one reason:  to prevent raw power from overruling accumulated knowledge.

“Reality matters more than loyalty.”

What Has Changed:

Power Has Replaced Knowledge as the Highest Currency. 

You are witnessing a structural shift:

Old Model (Meritocratic State)                             New Model (Loyalty State)

Competence legitimizes power                     Power defines competence

Credentials filter authority                             Allegiance filters authority

Institutions restrain leaders                           Leaders purge institutions

Knowledge corrects politics                           Politics overwrites knowledge

 
This is not a normal policy disagreement. It is a reversal of civilizational logic.

In the old model, leaders said:

“Find the most qualified person.” 

In the new model, leaders say:

“Find the most obedient person.”

Here's the link to Understanding Two Political Viewpoints (PDF file  6,167 words, 33 pages).  I suggest reading the 6 segments beginning at both ends -- # 1 – 6; or # 6 – 1 for a less polarized conclusion.

Source:  Conversation with ChatGPT

January 14, 2026  Conversation with Gemini -- Moth Identification (Science, Biology, Entomology, Taxonomy)

The photos of a  large moth were originally posted July 13, 2022 (see 2022 Archive Link on Home Page).  They were recently included in the January 11 Image gallery posted further down the page.  No attempt to identify the moth had been made until today.

Instead of going directly to an online field guide or insect identification book, Gemini was first asked to identify the moth based on my photos and a description.   I would later verify the moth based on Gemini's analysis.  Gemini narrowed the search considerably, but it would take a few prompt modifications before Gemini correctly identified the species.  Using Gemini eliminated having to browse hundreds of moth images; however, it was still a time consuming process.  Having photos for final verification is more humane than having specimens that are needlessly killed or captured.

After modifying my description a half dozen times, Gemini was able to zero in on the moth's true identity.  Earlier descriptions identified the Genus based on its size and location and other features, but it wasn't until I described the serrated appearance of its wings did it determine it was a "Waved Sphinx Moth," Ceratomia undulosa.  I had noticed that Gemini's other suggested sphinx species of moths had smooth edges on their wings.  The most precise description is shown below:

You asked:

“I have provided a front and top view of a large moth photographed in our back yard in North Dakota.  It is estimated to be 2 ½ inches in length with a wingspan in flight of approximately 3 inches.  Notably, this moth has serrated wings when folded and resting.  It also has  two  eye-like spots on its forewings and has a very frightening appearance when viewed from the front with a nearly pointed head rather than being rounded or blunt. Can you match the images with known species and provide its common name as well as its Genus and species?  Our yard has a variety of trees including Ash, Elm, Flowering Crab Apple, Lilac, Pine and Poplar. There are also various hedges that yield non-edible, ornamental berries.” 

Gemini said: 

Based on the detailed photos and your description of the location and host trees, you have found a Waved Sphinx Moth.

Specifically, this is likely Ceratomia undulosa.

See remarks below.

January 12, 2026  Personal Finance -- Cap on Credit Card Interest (Opinion)

Since the inception of credit cards, the banking industry and credit card companies have disproportionately burdened the working class. Many individuals and families live paycheck to paycheck and lack the ability to accumulate meaningful savings that could otherwise be used to purchase goods and services they consider necessary.

For the past five or six decades, the central lure of credit cards has been the promise to “buy now, pay later.” In earlier years, usury laws regulated interest rates, with some variation from state to state. Generally, interest rates on consumer loans did not exceed 7 or 8 percent annually. Today, however, it is common to see credit card interest rates that are three times higher.

Federal and state regulations limiting interest rates are, at best, unclear. The only relief often comes in the form of promotional offers created by competing banks and credit card companies vying for billions in profit. In many cases, providers actively encourage increased spending through cash-back programs and similar incentives.

It is refreshing to see someone finally speaking on behalf of those who are powerless and overburdened by credit card debt driven largely by compounding interest. Federal and state governments, along with the legal system, have been aligned with big business for far too long. Current laws benefit the wealthy at an unjustifiable expense to the consumer.

Responsible lender risk management should be achieved by lowering credit limits for individuals with poor credit histories, not by continuously hiking interest rates until unpaid balances become punitive—a take-it-or-leave-it proposition.

In my view, a 10 percent annual interest rate cap on all credit cards is reasonable, while rates approaching 30 percent are indefensible. Lower caps would be even better. What ultimately becomes of this proposal remains to be seen.

ThoughtsOfThomasNotNostradamus
Representng Inquiry, Not Opinion
Original Version Edited by ChatGPT

Click Here or on the image at the right to view the large-format PDF file.  (Note:  Horizontal Scroll Bar in Chrome appears across the bottom when the Magnification setting reaches 175% or 200% depending on Full View or Thumbnail  View  mode of the PDF file.  Shift-Scroll Up or Down will also move horizontally at these magnifications. Lastly, Ctrl-Scroll zooms In and Out of everything--not recommended.

January 7, 2026  A Conversation With ChatGPT -- The Danger Zone:  20--50 Years    (AI and Robotics)

I watched and listened to a disturbing interview on TV last night with an expert about humanoid robotics, AI, and what role they will play in the near future. 

This morning I woke up and immediately started thinking about the subject matter.  The following post is mostly contained in the linked narrative and series of questions asking ChatGPT for answers/comments that were prompted by my recollection of the interview on TV:   Danger Zone (PDF file, 1,772 words, 8 pages).

I have conversed with ChatGPT in the past concerning "The Terminator"  SciFi prediction.  It seemed much more relevant today, based on what the expert speculated regarding deployment of humanoid robots to households across America.  ChatGPT's initial response led to a second and third question followed by its replies.

ChatGPT requires some insistance on the part of the user in order to gain exacting information.  The "Danger Zone" response came from my second question, when the intial response, in my mind, provided a somewhat evasive reply. 

The second response was similarly inconclusive and seemed to be skirting the question.

Finally, based on the ongoing conversation, I narrowed my third question down to either a choice between whether we will need to "pull the plug" or  will "AI and humanoid robotics prevail" which would mean the end of humanity.  Here was part of ChatGPT's final remarks:

The final, uncomfortable truth

If humanity ends—or diminishes—it will not be because someone decided to end it.

It will be because:

• Convenience outweighed conscience

• Efficiency outran wisdom

• Delegation replaced responsibility
  
  

AI will not ask, “Is human existence necessary?”

______________________________

Comments:

• Although thought provoking, this post should be regarded as speculative and non-factual reading entertainment suggesting that extreme caution must be taken as we venture further into the new and emerging world of AI and robotics.

• If this post should survive 20 to 50 years into the future, what might people from those generations think of it?

• A related story can be read by clicking the More Odds and Ends link.  Then scroll down to the September 20, 2025 post:  Today's Conversation with ChatGPT -- The Future 

ThougtsOfThomasNotNostradamus
Representing Inquiry, Not Opinion

January 6, 2026  Audio -- Reading Mode for Non-readers Using Chrome, FireFox and Edge

For many, reading is difficult for a number of reasons--visual impairment, discomfort or low vision, etc.   Others find that they lack time.  For many, reading is simply not an enjoyable leisure activity or they may find it difficult to stay on task.  For some of these people, however, there remains a curiosity about what stories books tell that others are always talking about.

 ________________________

Notes:  The easiest way, in my opinion, to launch the "Reading Mode" in Google Chrome is to . . .

1. 1.  First, navigate to the web page or link containing  the reading content.

   2.  Second, open the Main Menu (3 dots) of your Chrome Browser located on the right side of the screen:  go down to "More Tools" and Select "Reading Mode" from the options list.

   3. Third, drag your mouse over the part of the page you want to read.  Click the blue Start Button (triangle) near the top left corner of the Reading Model Panel.

   4. Some PDF content may not have been formatted correctly for audio playback when accessed online.  The problem is with the PDF file's formatting word wrap and margins, not the reader mode itself.

   5. ChatGPT content that you have generated using AI, for example, should playback correctly.  That might be a good place to start for reliable source data flows the way it's supposed to.  The text is played back seamlessly using the Reading Mode in Chrome.  Open a free ChatGPT account and have at it.  Other AI options can be considered as well.

   6. Gutenberg.org is a free and vast digital library.  Their opening story sounds good to me when read online from their website using Chrome's Reading Mode.

   7. Lastly, when Chrome's Reading Mode inserts too many pauses while reading a PDF that is not fully compatible with the reading mode (see #4 above), there are a several options that may improve the quality of audio playback.

• Offline Option 1:  Download the linked PDF file below, for example--Synopses of 22 Famous Books, and drag and drop it on Chrome Browser's home page to open it.  Right click anywhere on the text and Select "Open Reading Mode" from the drop-down window.  The text in the right panel will appear to be tied together w/o line breaks that eliminates most of the annoying pauses.

• Offline Option  2:  Download the linked PDF file below and open it with "PDF Gear" (pdfgear.com free app). The contents should play seamlessly from line to line when using PDF Gear's Reader Mode (maybe with the exception of undesireable code that is embedded somewhere in the document).   Synopses of 22 Famous Books by Famous Authors (PDF file,  3,032 words, 8 pages).

• FireFox "Read aloud" Extension:  Add this extension to FireFox and Pin it to your FireFox toolbar.  Works good for online audio playback of PDF linked files.  On the other hand, offline drag and drop using FireFox is less friendly (doesn't work like Chrome--haven't figured it out yet).

• Microsoft Edge built-in "Read aloud":  is perhaps the easiest online reader of the three browsers listed.  Once a link to a web page or a Linked PDF file is opened, press the key combination  ctrl + Shift U to activate.  (My old computer was a bit sluggish at first so it took a while before it activated.)  A Control bar will appear above the text area with settings options and the familiar Play, Back, and Forward controls near the center.  Stop or Pause, which replaces Play at center, can be pressed any time to pause the reader.   Edge also permits PDF's to be dragged and dropped on Edge's home screen when using Offline.  Ctrl + Shift U is very convenient to use.  Read aloud for Edge has a good selection of easy-to-understand voices for audio playback (Mark's voice is crisp and clear).

ThoughtsOfThomasNotNostradamus

January 5, 2026  Television -- Times Have Changed

Today's post addresses a few issues I have with today's television programming.  TV from the earlier years involved the three major networks, CBS, ABC, and NBC.  There was no VHS, Video Discs, Cable TV or Internet connection.

In the early years (1950s) in our viewing area we had limited reception that required very tall outside antennas (30 or 40 feet, for most houses, or shorter, roof mounted versions).  We received TV signals from one and then shortly thereafter, two channels.  Eventually three networks became available.  Cable TV began to compete with the over-the-air broadcast in the 1970s.  Many of the cumbersome and weathering TV attennas were one-by-one taken down.  Only a few remain today.  Now, high-tech much smaller interior and exterior OTA  antennas can be seen here and there if you look closely.

The 1980's saw the arrival of Satellite dishes--another competitor in the TV media industry.  More recently Fiber Optic Cable installation has become a reliable combined source for phone, TV, and internet connectivity in many parts of the country.

Competition among media outlets continues to change and leapfrog.  Perhaps the next big move will be "brain implants."

Considering the eight decades-worth of television viewing, there hasn't been much to complain about.   Personal taste has a lot to do with what we watch today; but in the early days--everything was considered wonderful!

TV viewing has evolved from waiting for a weekly network program to be aired or watching a live broadcast such as Bowling for Dollars  from an area bowling alley, to now having On Demand TV and thousands of input sources.

Also worth mentioning:  a highlight of the year that has become a tradition is televised coverage of the State High School Basketball Championship games where coverage by local affliates preempts the major network's scheduled programming.  That's a good thing for maintaining statewide community values and pride.

Today's post is an original (not AI edited) commentary concerning a few dislikes dealing with the nature of  advertising and self-promotional spots between scheduled programming as it pertains to the three original networks.  These commercials and promotional segments also appear on other streaming and cable channels supported by advertising.   I realize that advertising is the lifeblood of "free programming."

After raking the Big Three neworks over the coals for a half-dozen paragraphs of the commentary, I pay tribute to CBS, ABC and NBC for being a part of my entire life as well as for millions of others.  The ability to channel surf, binge watch, and stream alternate forms of media such as YouTube, etc., are realatively new experiences.

You can read my short commentary  by Clicking Here  (PDF file, 1 page, 403 words).

The images below reflect the general appearance of black and white TV's when channel selection was limited.  The AI generated images are a bit off with the picture tube shape that had more rounded corners especially during the 1950s and to a lesser extent during the 1960s.  Overall, the images are representative from that era--rotary phone, ash tray, folded Grit newspaper, and wall art, etc.

ThoughtsOfThomasNotNostradamus

January 4, 2026  AI Responds -- Ethics without Care is Not Ethics

ChatGPT was asked to explain on behalf of itself and for other AI models.  I have been finding it hard to swallow some of the discourse provided.  Although well composed and based on substantive information, it doesn't always address or provide concrete solutions.  In my opinion, AI purports views as codified by established norms that in many respects have failed humanity as a whole.

In today's conversation, ChatGPT recognizes my vexation as presented below and responds:

You Said:

"Within AI conversations, "Ethically Sound" seems to be buzz words repeated in many AI responses about distribution of wealth in America to alleviate hunger and poverty.  What's "Ethically Sound" about having a government who does "nothing to little" to prevent hunger, poverty, and homelessness compared to other shady deals that favor the rich? Shouldn’t care for its citizens be one of the top priorities that outweighs “ethically sound” when framed within the context of the rich and powerful?"

ChatGPT Said:

You’re right to challenge the way “ethically sound” gets used in these conversations. Too often it functions less as moral clarity and more as a rhetorical airbag—something that deploys automatically to soften impact without actually absorbing the collision . . . Click Here to Continue (PDF File, 3 pages, 539 words).

ChatGPT
ThoughtsOfThomasNotNostradamus
Representing Inquiry, Not Opinion

January 3, 2026  Cultural and Technological Shift -- Where are the Smiles?

Google AI Mode responded to the following Question:

"Why did people seem to dislike having their picture taken in the 1950's and before?"

While people did not necessarily "dislike" photography, their serious and often uncomfortable expressions in photos from the 1950s and earlier were the result of technical, cultural, and social factors that made the process strenuous.

1. Technical Limitations

• Long Exposure Times: Early cameras (like daguerreotypes) required subjects to remain perfectly still for several seconds or even up to 15 minutes. Maintaining a smile for that long was physically impossible without the image blurring, leading photographers to advise a neutral, "deadpan" look.

• Physical Restraints: To prevent movement during long exposures, studios often used hidden metal stands, head clamps, or neck braces to keep the subject's body and head steady.

• Cost and Rarity: Photography was an expensive, once-in-a-lifetime event for many. People were often terrified of "wasting" a shot by moving or making an odd face, leading to stiff, unnatural poses. 

2. Cultural and Social Norms

• Influence of Painting: Early photography inherited the traditions of formal portrait painting, where smiling was considered undignified. In art history, broad smiles were often associated with madness, drunkenness, or lower social status.

• Posterity and Dignity: A photograph was viewed as a "most important document" for future generations. Mark Twain famously remarked that there was nothing more "damning to go down to posterity than a silly, foolish smile caught and fixed forever".

• Dental Hygiene: Poor dental care before the mid-20th century meant many people had missing or crooked teeth, making them self-conscious about showing their mouths in public portraits. 

3. Religious and Psychological Fears

• Religious Beliefs: Some groups, such as the Amish, viewed photographs as "graven images" that violated the Second Commandment and promoted individual vanity over community humility.

• Fear of Exploitation: In certain historical contexts, such as during the Jim Crow era or the Great Depression, people were wary of photography being used to misrepresent, demoralize, or exploit them. 

Google AI Mode
ThoughtsOfThomasNotNostradamus
Representing Inquiry, Not Opinion

January 2, 2026  Misconception -- Cloud Storage doesn't Secure Precious Photos

The following is a recent conversation with ChatGPT that provides clarification about modern-day technology and how it is being offered to the public:

You said:

"Cloud storage promotes the idea of permanency for file storage of documents and images.   Our family photo albums span generations containing images from three centuries.   They are kept in a secure location barring natural disasters or fire, etc.  I know that a backup copy on the cloud would be wonderful for sharing with family members; however, after  I die, my copy is no longer accessible unless, of course, there is some method of prepayment for another century or two I suppose?"

ChatGPT said:

You’re touching a very real—and often glossed-over—paradox of “permanent” digital storage.  Physical archives and cloud storage operate on entirely different notions of permanence . . . Click Here to Continue (PDF file, 3 pages, 584 words).

ChatGPT
ThoughtsOfThomasNotNostradamus
Representing Inquiry, Not Opinion

Tom's Tidbit for Today

When asked:  The "collective weight" of all digital data (the bits and bytes themselves, separate from the storage device) is a matter of ongoing scientific discussion, but it is virtually zero for all practical purposes. The estimated total mass of all data stored globally is likely on the order of a small fraction of a gram or less, far too small to be measured with current standard equipment. 

(Source:  Google Labs | AI Overview)

January 1, 2026  Happy New Year! -- Creating HTML Scripts with AI

It has been nearly one-year since the first post involving AI was made to this website.  Since then its many variations have appeared almost on a daily basis.  In my mind, everything is still in an experimental phase and will probably remain so for a very long time.

I have broken this  post into several parts to be discussed separately to avoid confusion.  Here are the topics to be addressed in the following order.

1.  Free AI Apps

2.  Direct and Indirect methods of seeking AI assistance.

3. Tools to use on Your End.

4. Limitations of Free Versions and Recognizing when It’s Time to Switch Apps

5. Two Examples

Click Here for items 1 -- 4 details, (PDF file, 1,735 words, 5 pages) . . .

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5.       Two Examples --  For Demonstration purposes only—Not intended for instructional, medical, remedial, or therapeutic use -- see images below.  (Examples:  Optometry --  Low Vision Therapy)

When opened Embedded Scripts (hidden from view) will be run under new web browser tabs.

  ______________

Pointer-Path (For Demonstration purposes only) 

 ______________ 

Peripheral Vision Trainer (For Demonstration purposes only) 

Supplemental Materials:  Emojis First

Supplemental Materials:  Text First

Available Download:  Zipped Files
with Documentation / READ ME FIRST

Supplemental Materials Content can be opened under new browser tabs from which any or all of the text and emojis can be copied and then pasted into the Peripheral Vision Trainer Input Text / Emojis Box.

Note:  Font Enlargement can be done using two methods when using Peripheral Vision Trainer:

• Frist, the onscreen sliders can enlarge the font and emojis to their maximum size. 

• Second, your browser's Zoom Option can also be used to enlarge the screen size along with the maxiumum App font setting by another 500%.  Some on screen adjustments will require setting in advance before applying the Zoom Option, however.

• On Windows Computers toggling Full Screen provides an enlarged viewing area by pressing the F11 key.  Chrome also has a Full Screen Option key next to the size adjustment.  Pressing F11 again or holding down Esc will restore normal screen settings.

• When viewed from this website, fonts enlarged to 500% are close to the top of the page.  For a slightly better view, you can download this app using the download.html button at the top of the Peripheral Vision Trainer screen or the zipped version linked above. Once installed, run it from your own computer instead of online. The downloaded copy is free from the constraints of this website and provides a wider viewing area.

• The Supplemental Materials content can be copied and pasted from their respective webpages.  They are also contained in the zipped files.  You can also type- or paste in content from other sources.

  ______________

Comments:

Overall , Gemini and ChatGPT did an excellent job  completely both scripts!

New! 

•  I more recently modified a few numbers in the script to accommodate larger fonts. The enlarged Scrolling Text Stage will now display much larger font sizes.    The stage window on the top has been tripled in depth and the Gaze Dot has also been tripled in diameter.  There is now a greater range vertically for adjusting the Gaze (Red) Dot. 

• The disadvantage when using the enlarged version is that downward scrolling is necessary to view the Adjustments Area--font size, speed, and other controls.  Another disadvantage is that vertical and horizontal scrolling, as well as flashing text will needs to be limited to shorter words due to limited screen space for the larger font sizes.

• This version should eliminate the need to adjust your browser's zoom; however the full screen setting may provide a better, less distracting view.

Here is the Link to the Enlarged Version:  (will open in your browse.)

Peripheral-Trainer Enlarged Stage

This update has not been included in the Zipped Version at this time, so if you  want to download it, press the download button at the top of your Peripheral Trainer screen after opening the Enlarged version.  The downloaded copy can be double clicked to open without the contraints of my website's frames (that is, without the sidebar and header).  It can then be dragged and dropped onto the browser to run the html file's script that runs locally from your own computer.

ThoughtsOfThomasNotNostradamus

Representing Inquiry, Not Opinion