AI vs The Big Mango: What ChatGPT 4o and Gemini Know (and don't know) about Bangkok [S7.E27]

Greg and Ed perform an interesting test of the current state of
AI: can you actually trust what different AI's have to say about
Bangkok and Thailand? Greg uses ChatGPT, while Ed is a Google guy
through and through, so Gemini it is. The first question involves
a bit of Thai history: exactly when and for how long did Thailand
use a red flag with a white elephant? Proper research reveals the
correct answer is 1855-1917, but ChatGPT misses by a wide mark,
with an answer of 1917 to 2017 (!). Gemini does considerably
better, with an answer of 1855-1916. 


ChatGPT does better with the next straightforward question: Is
Bangkok a province of Thailand? The technically correct answer is
'no,' because Bangkok is designated as a 'special administrative
area' in the Thai system of government. Both AI get the answer
right, with Gemini possibly providing a more thorough
explanation. 


The challenge continues, with questions about Japan and Thailand
in World War II, directions in Bangkok, and the history of
Southern Thailand. Both AI models do an okay job but also clearly
make some factual stumbles. So the lesson of the day appears to
be that AI might be helpful as a general background research
tool, but always check your facts and don't count on it 100% -
especially when it comes to trying to understand Bangkok!


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