AI makes you boring
Hacker News
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
AI is making tech discussions less engaging and innovative, according to recent observations about the decline in quality among "Show HN" submissions. The author argues that while AI tools can be useful, they often produce shallow ideas because AI models lack originality. This phenomenon isn't limited to specific platforms; it's evident across tech discussions, where AI-aided projects frequently lack depth and creativity.
The issue stems from how AI works: it excels at processing inputs but struggles with generating truly original thoughts. Instead of fostering deeper problem-solving, AI often regurgitates familiar ideas, making discussions feel repetitive and uninteresting. This isn't just a technical problem—it affects the way people learn and innovate in tech. Historically, platforms like Show HN allowed for meaningful exchanges because participants had immersed themselves deeply in their projects. Today, reliance on AI tools reduces that immersion, leading to surface-level ideas.
The author also challenges the notion that adding humans to guide AI would solve this problem. While human oversight is important, it doesn't make AI-generated ideas more original or thoughtful. Instead, it often makes human thinking more like AI output—formulaic and predictable. True innovation comes from prolonged immersion in a problem space, something AI can't replicate.
This matters because tech discussions are a key driver of innovation. When these conversations become shallow, the potential for groundbreaking ideas diminishes. The author emphasizes that creativity requires hard work and deep engagement with problems—not just quick fixes using AI tools. As AI becomes more prevalent, understanding its limitations and ensuring human involvement in meaningful ways will be crucial for maintaining tech's forward momentum.
Ultimately, the challenge isn't whether to use AI but how to integrate it wisely. Over-reliance on AI risks making even innovative projects feel uninspired, highlighting the need for a balanced approach that leverages AI as a tool while preserving the depth of human thinking and creativity.
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Originally published on Hacker News on 2/19/2026