Are our machines learning? The verdict is still uncertain on AI’s ability to improve its public relations
Artificial Intelligence: From Promise to Controversy
Artificial intelligence (AI) has long been hailed as a transformative technology across various fields. However, critics argue that the current state of AI resembles a poorly executed Michael Bay film. From journalism to transportation and the arts, machine learning is facing significant pushback. The question remains: can the benefits of AI outweigh its negative reputation?
The Scandal at Sports Illustrated
Sports Illustrated, once a dominant publication in American journalism, faced a major setback when it was revealed that AI-generated writers were behind some of their articles. Ross Levinsohn, CEO of the Arena Group, the publisher of SI, was let go amidst the scandal. Manoj Bhargava, creator of the 5-hour Energy drink brand, has taken over as CEO to rectify the situation. While the company denies any connection between the CEO’s removal and the AI issue, the timing raises suspicions.
The controversy surrounding SI went beyond the use of AI for article writing. The publication was also accused of hosting fabricated bios for its AI writers. Futurism, an online publication, exposed this issue in a story titled “Sports Illustrated Published Articles by Fake, AI-Generated Writers: We asked them about it — and they deleted everything.” One such example was “Drew Ortiz,” a supposed product reviewer with a non-existent online presence and a profile photo available for purchase on a website selling AI-generated headshots.
Futurism discovered several other fake AI writer bylines and biographies on the SI website and another property owned by the Arena Group, TheStreet. The quality of the AI authors’ posts was also called into question, with poor language and formatting discrepancies. SI initially deleted the content when confronted but did not provide any comment. The Arena Group blamed a third-party contractor for the problem, but the damage to their reputation remains.
Tesla’s Autopilot Recall
Tesla, the electric automaker led by Elon Musk, faced its own AI-related challenge. Over 2 million Tesla vehicles were “recalled” due to issues with the Autosteer function. The car’s autopilot feature was meant to assist drivers, but some relied on it too heavily, leading to accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration deemed Tesla’s backup system insufficient, prompting the recall.
Critics had long criticized Tesla’s claims about its autopilot feature, so the corrective action was expected. Tesla complied with the recall but opted for an over-the-air software update instead of physical repairs. This approach proved more cost-effective and led to a minor rally in Tesla’s stock price.
The Impact on Comic Books and Entertainment
In the world of comic books and related entertainment, AI-generated art has faced significant backlash. Prominent comic book creators denounced it as algorithmic theft of existing artwork, a sentiment shared by many fans. The Marvel television miniseries Secret Invasion faced additional controversy when it was revealed that AI-generated art was used in the title sequence. The series received poor ratings and became the worst MCU TV show, with AI’s involvement further damaging its reputation.
AI: A Tool with Limitations
While AI has its merits in science and business, some argue that its application in art and entertainment is questionable. Tim Schumann, a programmer and tech entrepreneur, believes that people often misunderstand AI as “imitation thinking” when it is actually ”fabricated knowledge.” Terry Moore, the creator of Strangers in Paradise, suggests that AI should be focused on solving complex global issues rather than producing fast and cheap entertainment. The potential of AI to save lives and our planet should not be squandered.
How should AI systems in transportation prioritize safety, and what are the ethical implications of prioritizing the safety of passengers versus the safety of pedestrians?
Em and stated that they were no longer working with them.
The Ethics of AI in Transportation
Another area where AI has faced controversy is in the realm of transportation. Self-driving cars, powered by AI systems, have been lauded as a solution to reduce accidents and congestion on the roads. However, recent incidents have ignited debates on the safety and ethics of these autonomous vehicles.
In March 2018, an Uber self-driving car hit and killed a pedestrian in Arizona. The incident raised questions about the readiness of AI technology to handle complex real-world scenarios. Critics argue that the rush to deploy self-driving cars without adequate testing and regulation puts lives at risk.
Furthermore, there are concerns about the ethics of AI systems making life-or-death decisions on the road. Should a self-driving car prioritize the safety of its passengers or the safety of pedestrians? This moral dilemma highlights the need for careful consideration and regulation of AI in transportation.
The Impact on the Arts
The field of arts has also been both fascinated and concerned about the role of AI. While AI can be a powerful tool for assisting artists in their creative process, some argue that it diminishes the authenticity and uniqueness of human expression.
A prominent example is the controversial sale of an AI-generated artwork by British artist Robbie Barrat. The art collector Barney Burns purchased one of Barrat’s AI-generated paintings for $432,500. This raised questions about the value of art created by AI and whether it can truly be considered an artist’s work.
Furthermore, there are concerns about AI replacing human artists altogether. With the ability to analyze trends, preferences, and algorithms, AI systems can create art that appeals to the masses. This raises concerns about the loss of individuality and the homogenization of artistic expression.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Despite the controversies surrounding AI, it is important to acknowledge its potential benefits. AI has the power to revolutionize industries, improve efficiency, and solve complex challenges. In healthcare, AI algorithms can aid in the early detection of diseases and offer personalized treatment recommendations. In education, AI systems can provide personalized learning experiences for students.
However, it is crucial to balance the benefits with the ethical considerations and potential risks. Transparency, accountability, and regulation are vital to ensure that AI is used responsibly and ethically. Collaborations between AI experts, policymakers, and industry leaders are necessary to establish guidelines and best practices.
Artificial intelligence holds great promise, but it also raises valid concerns. The controversies surrounding AI in journalism, transportation, and the arts are reminders that careful evaluation and discussions are necessary to navigate this transformative technology. By addressing the challenges head-on and prioritizing responsible use, we can harness the true potential of AI for the betterment of society.
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