As AI-generated news becomes more prevalent, the American public is increasingly skeptical about its impact on journalism. A recent poll reveals nearly half of respondents express no interest in AI-driven news, citing concerns over data use and manipulation of public opinion.
A recent poll conducted by Poynter and the University of Minnesota has shed light on the American public’s perception towards artificial intelligence (AI) in journalism. The survey, which recruited 1,128 demographically diverse participants, found that nearly half of respondents expressed no interest in AI-generated news, while a significant portion had ‘no confidence at all’ in news organizations using AI to write articles.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being used in journalism to enhance storytelling and improve content creation.
AI-powered tools help with fact-checking, research, and data analysis, reducing the time spent on manual tasks.
Additionally, AI-generated content, such as articles and videos, are being produced to supplement human-created content.
According to a report, 75% of journalists use AI for research purposes, while 40% use it for writing assistance.
As AI continues to evolve, its role in journalism is expected to grow, transforming the way stories are told and consumed.
The Distrust of Media
The results of the poll are not surprising, given the ongoing skepticism towards media and the role of AI in it. The distrust has been sown by high-profile figures like Donald Trump, who have used social media platforms to spread misinformation and fuel conspiracy theories. As a result, many people are becoming increasingly wary of AI-generated news, viewing it as an attempt to manipulate public opinion.
Media distrust has been on the rise globally, with a 2020 report showing that 66% of Americans trust the media 'some' or 'not at all'.
Factors contributing to this decline include perceived bias, sensationalism, and the spread of misinformation.
According to a Pew Research Center survey, 55% of adults believe that fake news has caused confusion about current events.
The erosion of trust in traditional media outlets has led to increased reliance on social media for news, despite concerns over accuracy.
The Concerns About Data Use
Another significant concern is the use of data in AI-generated news. With so many studies suggesting that people are ‘massively freaked out‘ about AI and its impact on our personal data, it’s no wonder that respondents were hesitant to accept AI-generated reporting. The fear is that AI algorithms may be using this data to create biased or misleading content.
Expert Insights
Benjamin Toff, a University of Minnesota media expert who led the research, offered some insightful comments on the findings. ‘The data suggests if you build it, do not expect overwhelming demand for it,’ he explained. This advice is particularly relevant for news organizations seeking to leverage AI technologies in their reporting.
The Future of Journalism
As AI continues to evolve and become more prevalent in journalism, it’s essential that news organizations prioritize transparency and accountability. By being open about the use of AI algorithms and data, they can build trust with their audience and ensure that their reporting remains accurate and unbiased. Ultimately, the future of journalism depends on its ability to adapt to new technologies while maintaining its core values of truth and integrity.
The Importance of Media Literacy
As AI-generated news becomes more common, it’s crucial that people develop media literacy skills to critically evaluate the information they consume. By being aware of the potential biases and limitations of AI algorithms, individuals can make informed decisions about the sources they trust and the information they accept as true.
The Role of Regulation
Regulatory bodies may need to step in to address concerns around AI-generated news. Establishing clear guidelines and standards for the use of AI in journalism could help build trust with the public and ensure that this technology is used responsibly.
The survey’s findings serve as a reminder that skepticism remains a significant challenge in the adoption of AI technologies in journalism. However, by acknowledging these concerns and taking steps to address them, news organizations can work towards building a more transparent and trustworthy media landscape.
