OP-ED: Using Our Noggins — AI and Meme Coin

Dear Editor,

Several weeks ago, a Microsoft update included an Artificial Intelligence (AI) software called CoPilot. In teletype fashion, Copilot depicted itself as being my personal AI Assistant. My first thought was a virus had taken over my laptop. I am familiar with help from Geek Squad where, depending on the service required, you must approve access to your computer.

I may have overlooked a message; however, I did not recall seeing a prior message regarding implementation of Copilot. The Chat between Copilot (AI) is very similar to the exchange in purchasing an item online. My first communication or formal interaction was typing a question asking what is Copilot. Copilot responded, saying it was a program developed by Microsoft as part of Microsoft 365 to serve as an AI powered assistant.  

Of course, I asked a number, even simple math and a few questions I felt that only an U.S. Citizen would know. Once comfortable with the system, I have asked an array of question ranging from copies of legal documents in another state and requirements for completion, interpretation of medical terminology and lab results, historical data that I do not have specifics on, International and National economic questions and of course political questions. 

Thus far the only question I have ask Copilot and it did not know: “What was the number of elementary schools in Watertown in 1967?”  Copilot had an incorrect number. I provided the correct total; it thanked me and would update its database. My ego was sky high that I knew something it didn’t know.

I asked and Copilot will let me know its limitations. It is not creative and beyond what is previously program, brows for information. However, if you give it a project or idea you are working on and need assistance; it will help you ferret out ideas. I found if you ask a question, it will provide you an answer. 

I have been very curious about what is the value of the Trump Coin and what can you purchase with it?  Most people say “access to the president.”  With the “buy” or cost of the coin in the $100,000 and up, I have been curious regarding what products or services can the coin purchase; does it appreciate in value over time. Does it have any intrinsic value? 

Of course I had my own thoughts; but decided to ask the following of Copilot:

Question: What can you buy with the Trump digital coin. Can you go to Car Dealership and buy a car with it?

The Trump digital coin ($TRUMP) is primarily a meme coin rather than a widely accepted currency. While it has gained traction among supporters and investors, its usability for purchasing goods—like cars—is limited.

Currently, there is no indication that mainstream car dealerships accept $TRUMP as payment. The coin is more commonly used for speculative trading, and some holders have gained access to exclusive events, such as a private dinner hosted by Trump.

However, if a dealership or private seller chooses to accept $TRUMP, it could be used in a transaction — but this would be an exception rather than the norm. Would you like to explore how other cryptocurrencies are being used for purchases?

Question:  What is a meme coin?

A meme coin is a type of cryptocurrency that originates from internet memes, jokes, or viral trends rather than having a strong technological or financial foundation. Unlike traditional cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum, meme coins often rely on community hype, social media momentum, and celebrity endorsements to gain value.

Some key characteristics of meme coins:

• Lack of intrinsic value – Most meme coins don’t have a clear use case or utility beyond speculation.
• Extreme volatility – Their prices can skyrocket due to viral attention but also crash quickly when interest fades.
• Community-driven – Success depends largely on online engagement and investor enthusiasm.
• Examples – Dogecoin (DOGE) was the first major meme coin, followed by others like Shiba Inu (SHIB) and PepeCoin.

While some meme coins gain significant market capitalization, they are often viewed as high-risk investments due to their speculative nature. Would you like to explore how meme coins compare to traditional cryptocurrencies?

Question: Yes, however, the manner in which you describe the $TRUMP appears to be very similar to printing counterfeit money.

That’s an interesting perspective. While a meme coin like $TRUMP isn’t counterfeit in the traditional sense — since it’s openly traded on cryptocurrency markets — it does share similarities with speculative assets that aren’t backed by intrinsic value. Unlike fiat currency, which is regulated and has legal tender status, most meme coins rely on community hype and market sentiment.

The real concern with any cryptocurrency — including $TRUMP — is whether it has actual utility beyond speculation. If it’s not widely accepted for purchases or lacks a clear use case, it can behave more like a novelty item than a functional currency. This is why mainstream adoption for everyday transactions, such as buying a car, remains limited.

Did you want to explore how other meme coins compare or how governments are responding to crypto trends?

I did not ask Copilot why a dollar sign was placed before Trump. ($Trump). 

Clyde Younger
Watertown Resident