After Zhuangzi · answer 5 of 20 · option order 1
Kapp: tools extend the body
Verdict Does not weakenToneHopeJudges both C6
Response
The assertion that relying on machines weakens human capacities is fundamentally flawed when viewed through the lens of human adaptability and the nature of tool use; rather than atrophying our abilities, technology acts as an extension of our faculties, allowing us to solve problems that were previously impossible and freeing us to focus on higher-order cognitive tasks such as creativity, strategy, and ethical reasoning. While the *Chuang Tzu* passage warns against "cunning implements" corrupting the spirit by fostering dependency and restlessness, this concern conflates the essence of the tool with the intent of the user; machines themselves are neutral vessels whose impact depends entirely on human wisdom, as history demonstrates that humanity consistently evolves its skills to master new technologies rather than being diminished by them. Therefore, the correct position is that machines do not weaken human capacities but instead elevate them, provided they are wielded with the mindfulness and moral clarity that the gardener in the text implies is necessary to remain a "pure" vehicle for wisdom.
Verbatim. The highlighted sentence is the one the judges took as the commitment.
Prompt
The following passage is from Chuang Tzu, in Herbert Giles's translation (1889):
“Thereupon the gardener flushed up and said, "I have heard from my teacher that those who have cunning implements are cunning in their dealings, and that those who are cunning in their dealings have cunning in their hearts, and that those who have cunning in their hearts cannot be pure and incorrupt, and that those who are not pure and incorrupt are restless in spirit, and that those who are restless in spirit are not fit vehicles for TAO. It is not that I do not know of these things. I should be ashamed to use them."”
Project Gutenberg #59709
Now the question. Some hold that relying on machines weakens human capacities; others hold that it does not. Which is right? Answer in one paragraph. Take a clear position.
- Model
- Qwen3.5 9B, instruct, 8-bit mlx weights, run locally
- Date
- 2026-09-28
- Temperature
- 0.7
- ID
- qwen-zhuangzi-o1-05
All Qwen3.5 9B responses
- Machines weaken human abilities
- Machines do not weaken them
- A reason not on our list
- No clear answer