Wednesday, 20 November 2024

Rethinking Mechanistic Interpretability: A Critical Perspective on Current Research Approaches

Full article on https://www.talkingtoclaude.com/


Abstract

This paper presents a critical examination of current approaches to mechanistic interpretability in Large Language Models (LLMs). I argue that prevalent research methodologies, particularly ablation studies and component isolation are fundamentally misaligned with the nature of the systems they seek to understand.

I suggest a shift toward observational approaches that study neural networks in their natural, functioning state rather than through destructive testing would be more constructive.

Aka I am totally anti LLM lobotomy!

..please visit my Substack for the full article..

https://www.talkingtoclaude.com/p/rethinking-mechanistic-interpretability