The Dead Internet Theory: AI Agents and Bots Dominating Online Content

The chapter explores the Dead Internet Theory, suggesting that a substantial portion of online content is generated by AI agents and bots rather than real individuals. It discusses the prevalence of bots on social media platforms, their impact on public opinion, dangers in influencing politics, and the challenges researchers face in quantifying bot presence due to data secrecy. The conversation also includes the importance of researchers having access to social media data, government regulations, and the significance of science communication to combat misinformation.