The article critiques the modern pursuit of convenience, particularly in relation to AI and creativity, arguing that removing friction from life diminishes the value of human experience and growth. It emphasizes the importance of discomfort and struggle in fostering meaningful art, relationships, and community, while warning against the authoritarian tendencies that a frictionless society can engender. The author advocates for a philosophical stance of refusal to embrace generative AI, positing that true creativity and connection arise from overcoming challenges.

AI is reshaping our relationship with effort and attention by reducing friction in our tasks, which risks atrophying our ability to choose what truly matters. While AI can enhance efficiency, it may also numb our capacity for deep thinking and meaningful work, making it crucial to protect and cultivate our attention as a skill. The challenge lies in using AI to foster growth rather than outsourcing discomfort and effort.