Rich Hickey Argues AI Lacks the Command-Based Definition of a Tool
October 12, 2026
Hickey distinguishes between useful objects and true tools, defining a tool as something a user can wield with full command and control. He argues that current AI usage fails this distinction, functioning more as something to be exploited rather than a controllable instrument.
HOW THIS AFFECTS YOU
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founderConsider whether your product provides true user agency or merely a black-box utility.