GoKawiilRich Hickey argues 'AI' should not be called a tool
In a LinkedIn essay, Clojure creator Rich Hickey contends that the word 'tool' is being applied too loosely to AI systems. He argues true tools are things wielded by hand with control and feedback, like hammers or saws, and that this hands-on use builds skill and understanding of the world. He contrasts this with LLMs, which he says lack the predictability, reliability and determinism that define genuine tools.
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Hickey's argument pushes back on tech industry rhetoric that frames AI as simply another tool for workers, suggesting instead that labeling it so may obscure how it actually functions and how it affects skill-building. His framing could influence how developers and policymakers think about AI's role relative to human expertise, though it remains one engineer's philosophical stance rather than an industry consensus.
- Rich Hickey, known for creating Clojure, published an essay questioning the 'AI is a tool' framing.
- He defines true tools as items wielded by hand that offer control, feedback and skill-building.
- He argues LLMs lack the predictability and determinism that characterize genuine tools.
Source: gist.github.com, 2026-10-12
Published there as: “'AI' Is Not a Tool by Rich Hickey”
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