Stupid AI around? Understanding users’ everyday AI complaints

Abstract

Grounded in the user-coined label “人工智障” (“artificial stupidity”) that has circulated on the Chinese internet in recent years, this study examines how ordinary users articulate negative experiences and understandings of artificial intelligence (AI) systems in everyday human-AI interactions. Drawing on the literature on algorithmic imaginary and complaint behavior, we develop a framework of “AI complaint” to conceptualize everyday, contextualized, user-generated negative evaluations of AI systems as a behavior-oriented discursive practice. Using thematic analysis of social media posts related to the hashtag “artificial stupidity,” we identify four user roles and pathways through which people complain about AI: judges grounded in evidence-based facts, appraisers based on subjective preferences, guardians of cultural representation, and sustainers of a contextualized repertoire. Based on empirical data, we argue that AI complaints constitute meaningful affective and social practice, serving functions including intrapsychic balance, social solidarity, and emotional regulation. We further note that not all AI complaints are necessarily reasonable, as some reflect unrealistic expectations or inappropriate uses of AI, highlighting the importance of addressing AI-related issues by considering both algorithmic accountability and human responsibility.