Deep fakes, the use of artificial intelligence to create realistic but fake videos, are rapidly making their way into the realm of politics. While these AI-generated avatars of deceased political figures may evoke nostalgia and enthusiasm among party cadres, they are also being used as a tool to manipulate public perception and malign political rivals.
Just as actress Rashmika Mandana fell victim to deep fakery, politicians are not immune to its repercussions. Deep fakes have been weaponized to spread disinformation and tarnish the reputation of political opponents. For instance, during the assembly elections, deep fake videos featuring an altered Amitabh Bachchan were circulated, portraying the Madhya Pradesh government negatively. Similarly, a deep fake video in Telangana depicted a minister speaking ill of the chief minister, causing an outcry and prompting an official complaint to the Election Commission.
While deep fakes can be used to propagate positive messages for a political party, their authenticity and appropriateness can come into question. For example, an AI-generated video of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa campaigning for a specific candidate could face legal challenges from rival politicians who question its legitimacy and intent. The same can be said for other iconic figures like C N Annadurai and MGR, whose legacies have become cornerstones of different political factions.
Even prominent individuals like Shashi Tharoor are not exempt from being subject to deep fakes. Tharoor recently participated in a televised interview with his AI avatar, showcasing the level of sophistication this technology has achieved. However, the potential dangers of deep fakes are not lost on Tharoor, who expressed concerns about the possibility of the AI avatar disseminating harmful or false information on his behalf.
While deep fakes in politics can evoke emotions, ignite nostalgia, and generate enthusiasm among party members, they also raise crucial ethical and legal questions. The use of AI-generated avatars blurs the lines between reality and deception, making it essential for society to establish guidelines and regulations to prevent their misuse. As technology continues to advance, it is crucial that we remain vigilant in identifying and safeguarding against the potential dangers posed by deep fakes in political discourse.
Deep fakes refer to the use of artificial intelligence to create realistic but fake videos that often manipulate or superimpose the faces of individuals onto different bodies or contexts.
Politicians are increasingly being targeted by deep fakes, which are being used as a tool to manipulate public opinion and harm political rivals.
For example, during assembly elections, deep fake videos featuring altered footage of Amitabh Bachchan and a minister in Telangana were circulated to spread disinformation and negatively portray the government or political opponents.
Deep fakes can also be used for positive propaganda, such as an AI-generated video of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa campaigning for a specific candidate. However, such videos may face legal challenges over their authenticity and intent.
Even prominent individuals like Shashi Tharoor have been subject to deep fakes, as demonstrated by his participation in a televised interview with his AI avatar. However, Tharoor has expressed concerns about the dissemination of false or harmful information through this technology.
The use of deep fakes in politics raises ethical and legal questions, as it blurs the lines between reality and deception. Guidelines and regulations are needed to prevent misuse of AI-generated avatars and protect against the potential dangers they pose.
Suggested Related Links:
– BBC Technology – Deepfakes: How do they work and why are concerns growing?
– Wired – What Are Deepfakes?
– Recode – Deepfakes explained: What they are and how they work
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