Assessing GPT-4’s role as a co-collaborator in scientific research: a case study analyzing Einstein’s special theory of relativity

Abstract

This paper investigates GPT-4’s role as a research partner, particularly its ability to scrutinize complex theories like Einstein’s Special Relativity Theory (SRT). GPT-4’s advanced capabilities prove invaluable in complex research scenarios where human expertise might be limited. Despite initial biases, an inclination to uphold Einstein’s theory, and certain mathematical limitations, GPT-4 validated an inconsistency within the SRT equations, leading to a questioning of the theory's overall validity. GPT-4 contributed significantly to honing the analytical approach and expanding constraints. This paper explores the strengths and challenges associated with the use of GPT-4 in scientific research, with a strong emphasis on the need for vigilance concerning potential biases and limitations in large language models. The paper further introduces a categorization framework for AI collaborations, and specific guidelines for optimal interaction with advanced models like GPT-4. Future research endeavors should focus on augmenting these models’ precision, trustworthiness, and impartiality, particularly within complex or contentious research domains.