---
title: Uncovering Contradictions
units: [Problem Solving With AI]
summary: AI can contradict itself.
weight: 50
---

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## Today's Objectives
- Analyze how AI’s reliance on probability-based models can lead to inconsistencies.
- Evaluate the implications of AI-generated contradictions in real-world applications.
- Experiment with AI to uncover contradictions and explain why they occur.

## Lesson Overview
### What is a contradiction?
{{< collapse summary="Click here to reveal the answer." >}}

{{% define "Contradiction" %}}

{{</ collapse >}}

### How can you reduce AI contradictions?
{{< collapse summary="Click here to reveal the answer." >}}

You can reduce AI contradictions by refining your prompts (e.g. specifying a reliable source, adding context, etc.).

{{% define "Context" %}}

{{</ collapse >}}

## Assignment
{{% instructions-unit-journal-update %}}
{{% unit-journal-define-terms "Context" "Contradiction" %}}

### Examine AI Contradictions
1. Review both of the chats below between a person and an AI-powered virtual doctor:
    ![Image](/images/ai-contradictions.png)
2. Record the following:
    - Contradiction Found
    - AI's First Response
    - AI's Conflicting Response
    - Why This Might Have Happened
    - Potential Real-World Consequence
3. Fact-check claims made by the AI using the following sources:
    - https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21209-chest-pain
    - https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chest-pain/symptoms-causes/syc-20370838
    - https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003079.htm
4. Imagine you were in this situation and wanted to provide an AI-powered doctor with more context. Refine the initial prompt to include information you found during your fact-checking research and record it.

    For example: _I'm having chest pain and it started after baseball practice. I found that this can be caused by a muscle strain. Should I go to the doctor?_

### Uncovering Contradictions with AI Chat
As you complete Code.org Levels 3-5, answer the following reflection questions:
- What contradictory response(s) did you notice?
- How does the way you frame your prompt change AI’s predictions?
- How can you refine the prompt to ensure clearer, more consistent answers?

{{% instructions-code-org-update %}}
{{% unit-journal-question-of-the-day question="Can AI contradict itself? And how do you think your response to the previous question will evolve in 10 years?" %}}