**Can We Please Stop Thinking of AI as “Slop”?**
As I’ve been scrolling through my social media feeds, I’ve noticed that a lot of people are still using the term “slop” to describe AI. I get it, the word was even named the Word of the Year by Merriam-Webster in 2025. But as Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella recently pointed out, we need to move beyond this simplistic and often negative view of AI.
In his latest blog post, Nadella makes a compelling argument that AI isn’t a replacement for humans, but rather a tool that can amplify our potential. He suggests that we need to stop thinking of AI as a binary good or bad thing, and start viewing it as a means to achieve more.
But does Nadella’s optimism about AI’s future ring true? Or is he isolating himself from the harsh realities of the impact of AI on the workforce?
**The Truth About AI and Jobs**
Let’s face it, many AI advocates have proclaimed that AI will replace human labor. But according to a report from MIT’s Project Iceberg, AI is only capable of performing about 11.7% of human paid labor. So, what’s the deal with all these job losses?
The truth is, AI is not replacing humans, but rather augmenting their work. In fact, many jobs are still very much in demand, and according to a report from Vanguard, the 100 occupations most exposed to AI automation are actually outperforming the rest of the labor market in terms of job growth and wage increases.
**The Irony of Microsoft’s Layoffs**
But, let’s not forget that Microsoft itself was guilty of layoffs in 2025, with over 15,000 employees let go. The company cited success with AI as a reason, but it’s clear that the actual reason was more complex.
As it turns out, the layoffs were more related to typical business practices, such as ending investments in slowing areas to invest in growing ones. Nadella himself wrote a memo explaining the move, but didn’t mention AI as a reason.
**The Future of AI and Work**
So, what does the future hold for AI and work? It seems that those who are mastering AI are becoming more valuable, not replaceable. As we move forward in 2026, it’s essential to have a nuanced understanding of the impact of AI on the workforce and to focus on developing AI that amplifies human potential rather than replacing it.
In conclusion, Nadella’s message is a timely reminder that AI is not a replacement for humans, but rather a tool that can help us achieve more. It’s time for us to stop thinking of AI as “slop” and start thinking of it as a means to amplify our potential.
**References**
* [1] Microsoft’s Nadella wants us to stop thinking of AI as “slop” (TechCrunch)
* [2] AI job cuts at Amazon, Microsoft, and other tech firms soar in 2025 (CNBC)
* [3] The truth about AI and jobs (MIT Project Iceberg)
* [4] Vanguard’s 2026 economic forecast report (Vanguard)
* [5] Blood in the Machine (Substack)
