The author also highlights the potential of AI as a research assistant, capable of providing leads and insights from large volumes of text in multiple languages. However, the author emphasizes that these tools are not perfect and their output should be treated as a starting point for further research. The article suggests that AI could revolutionize the field of historical research by making obscure and difficult texts more accessible and manageable.
Key takeaways:
- AI tools like GPT-4 and Claude are proving to be skilled translators, especially in the field of historical research. They can make educated guesses based on imperfect source material, have knowledge of historical context, and can summarize and analyze text.
- The author tested these AI tools by asking them to translate a passage from a 1599 book about demonology. Despite the challenging task, the AI tools were able to provide translations and even helpful explanations in brackets.
- The AI tools were also able to create charts and summaries from the text, acting as a kind of polymathic research assistant. However, the author emphasizes that these tools are not a replacement for human researchers, but a useful tool to aid in research.
- AI-assisted translation and analysis of primary sources could be an extremely useful tool for historical researchers and translators. However, it's important to remember that these tools are just that - tools, not replacements for human researchers.