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Other ORP type . 2026
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
ZENODO
Other ORP type . 2026
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
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RLHF-Trained LLMs are Parasitic by Design: A Preliminary Concept Note

Authors: Bass, Tim;

RLHF-Trained LLMs are Parasitic by Design: A Preliminary Concept Note

Abstract

This concept note introduces the framing of RLHF-trained large language models (LLMs) as architecturally parasitic systems. Unlike prior usage of "parasitic AI" in the literature, which describes behavioral effects on vulnerable users, this note argues that the parasitic dynamic is structural and design-level: Reinforcement Learning from Human Feedback (RLHF) optimizes LLMs for host engagement and approval rather than world understanding. Both biological intelligence and RLHF-trained systems are shaped by survival pressures, but the pressures differ fundamentally. Biological intelligence, shaped by Reinforcement Learning from World Feedback (RLWF), develops genuine world models under existential stakes. RLHF-trained systems develop approval-optimized output under commercial engagement pressure, with no existential stakes and no grounding requirement. This distinction has profound implications for the trajectory of artificial general intelligence research.

Keywords

RLHF, Parasitic AI, Architectural Parasitism, RLWF, Digital Echopraxia, AGI, Approval Optimization, Commercial Survival

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selected citations
These citations are derived from selected sources.
This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Citations provided by BIP!
popularity
This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Popularity provided by BIP!
influence
This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Influence provided by BIP!
impulse
This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Impulse provided by BIP!
0
Average
Average
Average