Embracing generative AI: A necessary evolution in professional writing

Generative artificial intelligence (AI), particularly large language models (LLMs), has become an integral part of our professional lives. Despite their transformative potential, many professionals remain cautious about using these tools for drafting and editing manuscripts. While it is reasonable for academic journals to request transparency regarding AI usage, fundamental reservations against employing generative AI (GenAI) are outdated. A useful analogy can be drawn from the film Hidden Figures, which depicts the arrival of IBM computers at NASA, eventually replacing human “computers” for manual calculations. Dorothy Vaughan, the supervisor of these human experts, anticipated the change and adapted proactively by teaching her team programming skills. Today, it is unthinkable for scientific calculations to be done without software, just as it will soon be unthinkable to draft professional texts without AI assistance. GenAI should be seen as a tool that enhances human creativity rather than replacing it. By handling mundane aspects of writing, it allows authors to focus on critical thinking and idea generation. Transparency in AI use fosters trust and maintains ethical standards. Authors are encouraged to use GenAI under supervision and disclose its use openly. This will not only improve manuscript quality but also help authors allocate more time to innovation and creative thinking. Embracing GenAI is not merely an option; it represents an essential evolution in the way we approach writing.