How Not to Use AI

Abi Awomosu’s work interrogates how AI systems replicate and amplify gendered social dynamics, especially by automating emotional and care labor historically performed by women.

The book expands on themes from her Substack, showing how agent-like AIs can feel like ‘Stepford’ servants that embody problematic design choices and power imbalances.

Awomosu combines cultural analysis, technology critique, and personal reflection to argue women’s skepticism about AI is a form of embodied wisdom.

She calls for recognition of the unpaid care labor that underpins many AI functions and for more inclusive design practices.

The book positions resistance to certain AI tools as both rational and potentially a basis for building alternative, equitable systems.