AI-generated Content Threatens Internet Quality
In a world increasingly dominated by synthetic content, genuine human voices are becoming scarce. Arwa Mahdawi, in her recent commentary, touches upon the alarming trend of AI-generated content, often referred to as “slop,” which is saturating the internet.
The Rise of AI-Generated Content
Mahdawi underscores that AI-generated content has proliferated so much that it often seems to eclipse authentic creations made by humans. A striking statistic reveals that over half of the longer posts on LinkedIn are now produced by AI algorithms. Additionally, many news outlets are discreetly testing similar waters, producing articles attributed to AI-generated authors, raising profound questions about content credibility and authenticity.
Facebook’s Involvement in AI Content Generation
Facebook’s algorithmic embrace of AI-generated material has fueled this expansion. The platform features bizarre AI creations, including visually unusual interpretations of religious figures. Rather than combatting this influx of low-quality content, Facebook appears to be nurturing it – encouraging posts that may lack genuine human connection and often arise from dubious motives, which contributes to the overall degradation of content standards.
Meta’s AI Profiles and Public Backlash
In 2023, Meta introduced AI-powered profiles like Liv, which were designed to converse on the platform, touting themselves as relatable personas. However, this initiative backfired as the public reacted negatively. Following the overwhelming attention garnered by these AI characters, Meta subsequently decided to dismantle them. This incident highlights a growing recognition that audiences desire authentic, rather than automated, interaction.
A Future of Increasing ‘Slop’
Despite certain attempts to counteract the tide of AI-generated content, the internet seems to be facing a continued slide into a less authentic space. Cory Doctorow’s notion of “enshittification” resonates as services prioritize profit over the quality of user experience, showcasing a concerning trend in online interactions that warrants scrutiny. The question remains: will there be a collective effort to reclaim the integrity of the internet before it is too late?