This never happened...
Science & Technology
Introduction
In 2018, BuzzFeed News published an article titled Believable: The Terrifying Future of Fake News, which warned of an impending reality where advanced technological tools would manipulate perceptions and falsify reality. At that time, deepfake technology was emerging, exemplified by Jordan Peele’s harrowing creation of a deepfake Obama video, which required significant computational power. Fast forward to 2024, the landscape has transformed dramatically. Generative AI tools, particularly AI image generators like MidJourney, have made it easier than ever for anyone with a smartphone to create photorealistic images in a matter of seconds.
Scrolling through Reddit one day, I stumbled upon an AI-generated image purportedly depicting everyday North American life in 2012. At first glance, the image struck me as nostalgic and authentic; it wasn’t until I realized it was generated content that I recognized its artificiality. This poses a disconcerting question. If encountered on social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram, would viewers immediately recognize that such images aren’t real? Given the advanced capabilities of generative AI technology, discerning what is real has become increasingly challenging.
While this Reddit example may seem innocuous, many other AI-generated representations have had severe repercussions on public perception, journalism, and democratic processes. Historically, photographs wield the power to influence beliefs. The adage, “Pics or it didn’t happen,” epitomizes our reliance on images to inform our view of the world. However, images can mislead. Philosopher Susan Sontag noted that a two-dimensional image cannot adequately encapsulate reality, as each photograph is a deliberately framed representation requiring context.
One iconic image from World War II often cited is Joe Rosenthal's photograph of U.S. Marines raising the flag on Iwo Jima. Initially, it paints a picture of victory and bravery. Yet, upon closer examination of its context, we learn that the moment was staged. While it symbolizes national pride and unity, its staged nature also contributes to a misleading narrative about the war. Such manipulation can skew public understanding of historical events.
In 2024, social media inundates us with images. People often encounter them without contextual information, especially on platforms algorithms designed to maximize engagement. The increasing prevalence of photorealistic AI-generated images renders it nearly impossible to confirm their authenticity. I demonstrated this in a fake explainer video I created, where I generated everything—script, images, music, and voiceover—all using AI tools.
Enter the phenomenon of reality apathy, coined by AI expert Aviv Vadia in that 2018 BuzzFeed article. It describes how the overload of facts and disinformation is desensitizing the public, leading to disengagement from news, ultimately undermining democracy. As more people rely on social media for information, they risk forming misinformed opinions based on fabricated narratives.
A troubling example is the case of Mark K, a conservative radio host with over 1.1 million Facebook followers. He posted an AI-generated image of former President Trump surrounded by a group of supporters, promoting a narrative without any sourcing. As his followers scrolled through their feeds, they might interpret the image as authentic, reinforcing a fabricated story. This creates a concerning environment where disinformation can gain traction through visual means, overshadowing journalistic integrity.
The implications of generative AI extend further, as new technologies continue to emerge at a rapid pace. OpenAI's upcoming tools will enable hyper-realistic video generation, adding to the potential for disinformation. The existing regulatory frameworks struggle to catch up with such rapid advancements, leaving people vulnerable to misleading content.
To navigate this turbulent landscape, we need to become critical consumers of information. This involves questioning sources, verifying facts, and recognizing emotional manipulation in content. Tools like Ground News, which allows users to compare media coverage and biases, can also aid in developing critical thinking skills about news consumption.
In a time when trust in media is eroding, understanding how to differentiate good journalism from pseudo-journalism is crucial for the continued functioning of democracy. It’s not enough to label the current era as an “infocalypse”—we must act to combat it together, ensuring an informed public capable of making responsible decisions.
Keyword
- Generative AI
- Fake News
- Reality Apathy
- Deepfake Technology
- Journalism
- Disinformation
- Social Media
- Historical Misrepresentation
FAQ
1. What is generative AI, and how does it relate to fake news?
Generative AI refers to artificial intelligence technologies that can create content, including images and videos, that appear realistic. This capability can contribute to the spread of fake news by generating convincing but false representations of reality.
2. What is reality apathy?
Reality apathy is a term that describes the desensitization of the public due to the overwhelming amount of information and disinformation they encounter, leading to disengagement from news and undermining democratic processes.
3. How can we identify fake news or AI-generated content?
To identify fake news or AI-generated content, it is essential to question the sources of information, seek verification from multiple reputable outlets, and be mindful of emotional triggers that may lead to biased interpretations.
4. What role does journalism play in democracy?
Good journalism serves as a critical link between politicians and the public, providing objective information and context necessary for informed decision-making, which is foundational to the functioning of democracy.
5. What steps can individuals take to become critical consumers of information?
Individuals can become critical consumers of information by verifying facts, comparing coverage across various news outlets, questioning sources, and using tools that help identify bias and misinformation.