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Generative AI lacks the human creativity to achieve scientific discovery from scratch

Author

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  • Amy Wenxuan Ding

    (EM - EMLyon Business School)

  • Shibo Li

    (Indiana University [Bloomington] - Indiana University System)

Abstract

Scientists are interested in whether generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) can make scientific discoveries similar to those of humans. However, the results are mixed. Here, we examine whether, how and what scientific discovery GenAI can make in terms of the origin of hypotheses and experimental design through the interpretation of results. With the help of a computer-supported molecular genetic laboratory, GenAI assumes the role of a scientist tasked with investigating a Nobel-worthy scientific discovery in the molecular genetics field. We find that current GenAI can make only incremental discoveries but cannot achieve fundamental discoveries from scratch as humans can. Regarding the origin of the hypothesis, it is unable to generate truly original hypotheses and is incapable of having an epiphany to detect anomalies in experimental results. Therefore, current GenAI is good only at discovery tasks involving either a known representation of the domain knowledge or access to the human scientists' knowledge space. Furthermore, it has the illusion of making a completely successful discovery with overconfidence. We discuss approaches to address the limitations of current GenAI and its ethical concerns and biases in scientific discovery. This research provides insight into the role of GenAI in scientific discovery and general scientific innovation.

Suggested Citation

  • Amy Wenxuan Ding & Shibo Li, 2025. "Generative AI lacks the human creativity to achieve scientific discovery from scratch," Post-Print hal-05053017, HAL.
    • Handle: RePEc:hal:journl:hal-05053017
    DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-93794-9
    Note: View the original document on HAL open archive server: https://hal.science/hal-05053017v1
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    Keywords

    Scientific discovery; Generative artificial intelligence; Large Language models; ChatGPT;
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