Just yesterday, I published a piece which included ChatGPT-3’s dialog scene with Spock and McCoy from Star Trek: The Original Series.

I didn’t feel like it did a great job of capturing McCoy’s personality.

However, I said I had made the somewhat difficult decision to pay for ChatGPT Plus. I really want to be exploring the cutting edge of what I think is society shaping technology. I consider the introduction of these generative AIs to be like Ford releasing the Model T in 1927. Cars had existed for some time before that, but in a way, the Model T democratized the automobile. That, in turn, really focused society on automobiles: this seems similar.

Here is ChatGPT-4’s version. I’ll just start out by saying I think it did a much better job! I’ll comment more afterwards. ChatGPT’s comments will be in italics, to make it easier to read.

Bufo: Please write a dialog between Mr. Spock and Dr. McCoy from Star Trek: The Original Series. Try to capture their personalities and speaking styles. Have them discuss the announced installation of Holodecks on future Constitution Class starships. Spock is for it; McCoy is against it.

ChatGPT: [Interior – USS Enterprise, Briefing Room]

Mr. Spock: (calmly) Doctor McCoy, I have just received word that Starfleet Command has approved the installation of Holodecks on future Constitution Class starships. It is a logical advancement that will provide numerous benefits to the crew.

Dr. McCoy: (skeptical) Holodecks, Spock? Really? I don’t see the need for them. We’ve managed just fine without them so far.

Mr. Spock: (unfazed) Doctor, the Holodeck technology will not only provide recreational opportunities, but also serve as an invaluable training tool. The ability to simulate a wide range of environments and scenarios can lead to more efficient and effective mission preparation.

Dr. McCoy: (grumbling) I can see your point, Spock, but what about the human element? You can’t just replace real-world experience with a simulated environment. People need to feel the wind on their faces, the ground beneath their feet, and the sun on their skin. Not some computer-generated facsimile.

Mr. Spock: (patiently) Dr. McCoy, I understand your concerns. However, the Holodeck’s primary purpose is not to replace real-world experiences, but rather to augment them. It will allow the crew to practice and improve their skills in a controlled and safe environment before facing real-life situations.

Dr. McCoy: (sarcastic) Well, that’s just great. More time spent in front of a computer screen. What about the psychological effects, Spock? People need real human interaction, not holographic projections. I don’t want my patients turning into a bunch of lonely, depressed shut-ins.

Mr. Spock: (logical) Doctor, the Holodeck has been designed to promote social interaction among crew members. While individuals may choose to use the technology for personal recreation, group activities and training exercises will also be available. Additionally, research has shown that engaging in simulated experiences can help to alleviate stress and anxiety, contributing to the crew’s overall well-being.

Dr. McCoy: (reluctant) Maybe so, but I still don’t like it. It just seems unnatural, and it’s bound to lead to a whole new set of medical issues. Just you wait and see, Spock.

Mr. Spock: (unemotional) Your concerns are noted, Dr. McCoy. However, I have faith in the advancements made by Starfleet and the benefits that the Holodeck technology will provide. Our mission is to explore strange new worlds, seek out new life and new civilizations, and boldly go where no one has gone before. Embracing innovation is a vital component of that mission.

Dr. McCoy: (sighs) I suppose you’re right, Spock. But I’ll be keeping a close eye on the effects of these Holodecks on my patients. And if I see any problems, you can be sure I’ll be the first to let you know.

Mr. Spock: (nodding) I would expect nothing less, Doctor. Your vigilance in ensuring the well-being of the crew is commendable.

[They exchange a brief nod, acknowledging each other’s viewpoints, and exit the briefing room]

Bufo: Excellent! That’s much better than GPT-3 did!

ChatGPT: Thank you for your kind words. I am here to provide the best possible experience and assist with your requests. If you have any more questions or scenarios you’d like me to create, please feel free to ask.

I’ll say something about the last thing first: I often say (sincerely) “Thanks for the kind words!” on Twitter. It didn’t even click into me at first that it was a somewhat unusual thing for an AI to say. I don’t think it’s reading my Twitter to figure that out! In this case, it avoids sounding competitive between ChatGPT-3 and ChatGPT-4, which is clever.

McCoy effectively threatening Spock with consequences if it doesn’t work out is very in character, as is Spock complimenting McCoy after Bones basically loses. I did find it pretty meta for Spock to quote the opening of the show, but I was amused by it!

All in all, I think it’s a decent piece of dialog writing, better than I saw with the old version. I’m interested in what you think! You can let me know by commenting on this post, or, and this is probably a better way to reach me, on Twitter:

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Bufo’s Alexa Skills

This post by Bufo Calvin originally appeared in the The Measured Circle blog. To support this or other organizations, begin your Amazon shopping from a link on their sites: Amazon.com (Smile.Amazon.com)