The dominance of utilitarianism and the weakening of criticism: generative artificial intelligence and the values at stake in science

Abstract: This editorial aims to share the formative path taken by the editorial board of the journal Ensaio: Research in Science Education on generative artificial intelligence (GenAI). In addition, by highlighting the foundations adopted, the questions raised, and the contradictions observed, we invite the community to an open and critical dialogue about GenAI and scientific practice. We mobilize discourses, positions, and controversies presented nationally and internationally, and, based on critical theories, we seek to expose the contradictions inherent in the production process, appropriation, distribution, and the uses and discourses associated with this technology. We emphasize the risks associated with the use of GenAI, including illegality, non-compliance, illegitimacy, implausibility, and uncriticality. In taking a critical stance towards the use of GenAI for academic production, we acknowledge its complex and intricate nature, as well as the limited research in the area of science education. This perspective aims to encourage the creation of communities and educational contexts in the science education field that promote the in-depth study, production, and critical analysis relevant to emerging technologies, such as GenIA.