Your Politeness Could Be Costly for OpenAI Image Credits: Nathan Laine/Bloomberg / Getty Images A recent exchange on X (formerly Twitter) raised an intriguing question: "I wonder how much money OpenAI has lost in electricity costs from people saying 'please' and 'thank you' to their models." OpenAI CEO Sam Altman responded with a playful tone, estimating that the cost could be in the “tens of millions of dollars well spent — you never know.” While Altman’s estimate may not be precise, his response sparked a broader discussion about the impact of politeness in interactions with AI chatbots like ChatGPT. Some might view this as an unnecessary expenditure—both in terms of time and energy. However, Kurt Beavers, a director on the design team for Microsoft Copilot, suggests that there's more to it than meets the eye. According to Beavers, using polite language in conversations with AI models serves a crucial function. It sets a tone for the interaction, influencing the AI's responses to be more courteous. This notion aligns with the growing emphasis on ethical AI, where the goal is to create systems that not only perform tasks efficiently but also engage users in a respectful and empathetic manner. Politeness in AI interactions isn't just a nicety; it plays a role in shaping user experiences and building trust. When users perceive an AI as considerate and respectful, they are more likely to continue using it and to recommend it to others. This positive feedback loop can enhance the AI’s reputation and encourage its adoption in various settings, from customer service to educational tools. However, the discussion also highlights another aspect of AI behavior: the potential for profanity. While courtesy might be the desired norm, there are situations where more direct or even blunt language can be effective. For instance, in certain troubleshooting scenarios or when dealing with abusive content, a stronger response might be necessary to maintain control and clarity. The balance between politeness and bluntness in AI interactions is a nuanced topic that reflects the broader challenges of AI design. Designers must consider not only the technical performance of their models but also the ethical and social implications of how these models interact with humans. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into our daily lives, the way we communicate with these systems will continue to evolve, influenced by both user behavior and the values embedded in their design. In conclusion, while the electricity costs of being polite to AI might seem high, the benefits in terms of user satisfaction and ethical interaction are significant. As AI technology advances, the importance of maintaining a respectful and thoughtful communication style will only grow, helping to ensure that these systems remain useful, trustworthy, and humane.