Science Weekly
Could AI help fight conspiracy theories?
Oct 8, 2024
Thomas Costello, an assistant professor of psychology at American University, dives into the intriguing intersection of AI and conspiracy theories. He discusses the alarming rise of conspiracy beliefs in the US and UK, with nearly half the population affected. Costello shares insights from his research on how AI, specifically chatbots, can effectively engage and persuade conspiracy theorists through respectful dialogue and counter-evidence. He highlights the importance of tone and the ethical challenges surrounding AI's influence on public beliefs.
16:09
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Quick takeaways
- AI chatbots can significantly reduce conspiracy beliefs by engaging individuals in informative discussions tailored to their existing views.
- The ethical implications of using AI for persuasion highlight the need for non-coercive approaches and ongoing trust assessments between AI and human sources.
Deep dives
Prevalence of Conspiracy Theories
Conspiracy beliefs are widespread, with studies indicating that about 50% of Americans and a similar percentage of people in the UK hold at least one conspiracy belief. These beliefs range from innocuous theories, such as those related to celebrity impersonations, to more impactful ideas, such as the notion that the 2020 US election was stolen. The consequences of these beliefs can be dire, as evidenced by the January 6 Capitol riot, which was fueled by conspiracy theories surrounding the election. The rise of misinformation, particularly through AI-generated content, poses a significant challenge, raising concerns about the erosion of public trust in credible information.
