Introduction

Here are two observations that you’ve likely made in your life:

One, you’ve noticed how easy it is to find fault. If you haven’t found fault yourself, then you know others who find this wrong and that wrong and that other thing wrong as well.

Two, you’ve learned about things generally deemed desirable and good, things not connected with fault, whether these are states of being or possessions or activities.

Now, if you put the first observation to the test (looking for fault), would the second still hold (that there are things without fault)?

Would there be nothing to complain about; would there be nothing wrong with all those things desirable and good?

This question is what I’m exploring in this little book. I, an engineering lead by trade but philosophy student by heart, didn’t set out to go on that exploration alone. I searched for a partner, one that everyone (almost everyone) believes will either save or destroy us: artificial intelligence (if you want to call it that).

This partner is what I used to have a look at more than 100 things that we commonly regard as “good,” asking what the problems with them were.

Like, what are the problems with being healthy?

Or, what are the problems with having a great personality?

Or, what are the problems with obeying the law?

The responses are what I feature, thereby indicating: the problems with all the good things.

I’ll meet you again at the end of this book.

—Jens Oliver Meiert

The main body of this work, that is, all sections starting with “The Problems With…”, were generated using OpenAI’s ChatGPT between March and June of 2023. With the exception of introductory paragraphs (most of which were shortened to focus on the to-be-presented problems) as well as inapplicable or duplicate statements (which were removed), these responses were largely left as is.

As stated in the colophon, while this book has been produced with great care, the author, publisher, and contributors (as well as OpenAI) assume no liability for the up-to-dateness, correctness, and completeness of the information provided. Use of the information in this book is on your own responsibility.

Not reading this book, particularly if it explores the problems with perceived good things, may have a few potential challenges or consequences. Here are some considerations:

1. Lack of understanding: By not reading this book, you would miss out on the author’s perspective and insights on the problems associated with the good things they discuss. This means you might not fully comprehend or appreciate their arguments, evidence, or the nuances of their viewpoint. Without understanding the book’s content, it can be difficult to engage in meaningful discussions or provide informed feedback.

2. Missed opportunity for learning: Reading books, especially those that challenge conventional thinking or present alternative perspectives, can be a valuable learning opportunity. Not reading this book means potentially missing out on the chance to expand your knowledge, broaden your understanding, and gain new insights that could shape your own perspective on various subjects.

3. Missed potential for personal reflection: Reading books that challenge our preconceived notions can stimulate critical thinking and self-reflection. By not reading this book, you may miss the opportunity for introspection and self-examination, which can be valuable for personal growth and development.

4. Limited engagement in dialog: By not reading this book, you may limit your ability to engage in meaningful discussions or contribute to the ongoing discourse around the problems with good things. Reading the book would allow you to actively participate in conversations, debates, or exchanges of ideas related to the topics explored in the book. Without that engagement, your contribution may be limited or based on second-hand information.