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The debate continues regarding the true nature of Large Language Models (LLMs), with the “stochastic parrot” analogy sparking considerable discussion. While some view the comparison as dismissive, others argue it’s surprisingly apt. Parrots, particularly African greys known for their question-asking abilities, exhibit a level of intelligence and awareness often compared to human toddlers. Thus, framing LLMs as sophisticated mimics might actually underscore their remarkable capabilities. However, the analogy is also facing scrutiny, with counter-arguments suggesting LLMs possess a complexity far exceeding that of parrots. Some propose alternative labels like “stochastic humans” or even “stochastic polymaths” to better reflect their vast knowledge and potential. The online debate originated on Reddit, fueling a broader conversation about the best way to characterize these rapidly evolving AI systems. [Reddit Post: https://old.reddit.com/r/artificial/comments/1khf4h0/stochastic_parrot_is_an_incredible_compliment/]