AI is creeping into journalism with a lack of accountability
News Corp Australia is harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to generate a whopping 3,000 articles every week. This groundbreaking feat showcases the remarkable potential of AI technology in the realm of content creation.
Traditional media outlets are turning to generative AI as a means to produce additional content while keeping costs in check.
In an industry impacted by slow development, certain press platforms are placing their bets on AI-produced journalism as the forthcoming pathway for reporting. However, amidst a period of multiple crises, where rapid and overwhelming events occur, this is the least desirable solution for democracies and societies.
Without the presence of AI boundaries, the consequences for content quality and the responsibilities of reporters are immense.
Will Generative AI Shape Journalism?
The field of journalism is beginning to grapple with the integration of AI into their work processes, and this has been highlighted by the first instances of unions forming in response to this development.
CNET was discovered last year engaging in the creation of articles through generative AI technologies, all while keeping readers in the dark about AI being the author. This revelation caused widespread anger, and The Verge disclosed that over 50% of the AI-generated articles contained factual inaccuracies. In response, CNET's editorial staff decided to form a union, seeking improved working conditions as well as increased openness and responsibility regarding AI utilization.
Due to comparable causes, major film studios are currently facing a strike by Hollywood writers. Predominantly, their demands encompass increased wages alongside improved residual payments from streaming platforms. However, another significant matter that concerns the writers is the utilization of artificial intelligence in crafting movie scripts and television series.
AI Boosting Revenue For Traditional Media
News Corp Australia is utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to generate a significant amount of articles every week, according to Michael Miller, the executive chair of the company. This technology enables them to produce stories relating to weather conditions, fuel prices, and traffic reports for publication.
The large media corporation has recently announced a significant decline of 75% in its profits for the entire year. Additionally, it is worth noting that more than half of the company's earnings in 2023 were generated from its digital platforms, marking the first time this has occurred. Consequently, the corporation is currently considering expanding the utilization of cost-effective content created by artificial intelligence.
What's At Risk?
The primary concern here is the integrity of journalism, given that the existing generative AI, like ChatGPT, lacks reliability when it comes to accuracy. These language models do not possess a factual comprehension of reality. Instead, they merely generate language based on predictions. They are unable to grasp the subtleties in language and often magnify prejudices and stereotypes.
Furthermore, media conglomerates could face damage to their standing if they opt to utilize AI, especially if they fail to disclose its application. Traditionally, these platforms and magazines have gained recognition for their substantial investment in credible reporting and rigorous fact verification, making them trusted defenders against falsehoods and fabricated information.
Several media companies are now shifting towards implementing a data-centered approach to their businesses, in which they profit from users' personal data. This approach, which has long been employed by social media platforms, has already shown itself to be unsustainable due to its focus on maximizing profits rather than delivering valuable content and respecting user privacy. In the ever-changing and volatile world we inhabit, we must depend on robust, long-lasting, and high-quality journalism to keep us informed and ensure accountability of those in positions of power. The advent of AI poses a risk to our democratic principles.
