The Hindu’s In Focus podcast explores whether GPT-5 marks a true revolution in artificial intelligence or is simply overhyped. Featuring digital anthropologist Payal Arora, the episode dives into the societal, ethical, and economic implications of GPT-5’s capabilities, questioning who benefits, who builds it, and how it reshapes human agency.
In Focus Podcast Dissects GPT-5: Breakthrough or Buzzword?
In the latest episode of In Focus, host Anupama Chandrasekaran sits down with Payal Arora, Professor of Inclusive AI Cultures at Utrecht University, to examine the launch and impact of OpenAI’s GPT-5. Titled “Is GPT-5 a revolution or hype?”, the podcast aired on October 12, 2025, and offers a critical lens on the world’s most talked-about AI model.
Key Highlights from the Discussion:
The GPT-5 Launch Drama
GPT-5 was unveiled in August 2025 amid massive anticipation, with promises of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) capabilities.
However, the launch livestream was marred by technical glitches, raising questions about its readiness and reliability.
Capabilities vs Expectations
GPT-5 is described as sleeker and faster, with improved reasoning and planning abilities.
Yet, Arora cautions that its “thinking” abilities are still far from human cognition, and the model remains pattern-based, not sentient.
Power and Control
The podcast probes who builds these systems and who reaps the rewards, highlighting the centralization of AI development in a few tech giants.
Arora warns of algorithmic gatekeeping, where a handful of voices shape how billions live, work, and learn.
Impact on Jobs and Society
GPT-5’s automation potential could displace jobs, especially in content creation, customer service, and education.
The episode discusses the need for inclusive AI cultures that prioritize human dignity and equity.
Ethical and Cultural Implications
Arora emphasizes the importance of cultural context in AI training, noting that GPT-5’s outputs often reflect Western biases.
She advocates for diverse data sets and transparent governance to ensure AI serves global communities fairly.
Conclusion: Revolution or Hype?
The podcast doesn’t dismiss GPT-5’s advancements but urges listeners to look beyond the glitz and assess its real-world impact.
Arora’s verdict: GPT-5 is a technological milestone, but its societal revolution depends on how it’s deployed and regulated.
Sources: The Hindu, TechnoHub Blog, YouTube