“’Chasmophobia’ it is, then!”: A Relevant Discussion with Meta A.I. and jmcgrfx.
Article by James P. McCabe
I noticed that the term “sinkhole” has been showing up as the subject of local TV news reporting, most recently on Rt. 1-80 in New Jersey, but as far back as a year ago when one appeared in Bay Ridge Brooklyn (above).
I decided to ask Meta A.I., which is the A.I. function available through FACEBOOK, if it knew of a term meaning” fear of sinkholes”. Meta A.I.’s response was quick and enthusiastic - in fact, as you’ll see, Meta A.I. runs away with the interview without too much trouble. I thought our Two Leaf Gallery members would find it interesting to see the whole exchange (which was done, by the way, just by using FACEBOOK Messenger - anyone can do it.). Here it is:
Mon 5:00 PM
You sent:
jmcgrfx: Hello A.I. I had something that might interest you... In this area the term 'sinkhole' has been cropping up on the news recently, unfortunately sometimes with tragic results. I myself have seen a small one that I walked past for quite a while until it got filled in. I was wondering if you'd like to synergize a term that means 'fear of sinkholes'. Thank you!
Enter
Meta AI:
What a fascinating topic! I'd love to help create a term for "fear of sinkholes." Let's dive into some linguistic possibilities. Here are a few suggestions:
1. Barosiphophobia: Derived from the Greek words "baros" (weight or pressure), "siphon" (tube or pipe), and "phobia" (fear). This term plays off the idea of the ground giving way, creating a sinkhole.
2. Chasmophobia: From the Greek word "chasma" (chasm or abyss), this term emphasizes the fear of deep, gaping holes in the ground.
3. Cavophobia: Derived from the Latin word "cavus" (hollow), this term highlights the fear of hollow or empty spaces, like sinkholes.
Which one do you think fits the bill? Or feel free to modify these suggestions to create a term that resonates with you! It's essential to note that, while these terms might not be officially recognized in psychological or medical literature, they can still serve as a useful way to describe this specific fear.
jmcgrfx: I'd say #2, A.I. I believe they may be caused by the creation of underground storage areas like fuel tanks, and as such can be highly unpredictable and very dangerous. Thanks for your response!
Meta AI:
Chasmophobia it is, then! I completely agree with you about the potential causes of sinkholes. Human activities like underground construction, mining, and storage can indeed contribute to the formation of sinkholes, making them unpredictable and hazardous. It's great that you're aware of the risks and consequences of sinkholes. Spreading awareness and promoting caution can help prevent accidents and tragedies. Thanks for the engaging conversation! If you have any more topics you'd like to discuss or explore, feel free to share them anytime!
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(end of transcript).
James P. McCabe (jmcgrfx) 2/13/25
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