The Rise of AI and the Future of Social Media: A lawyer’s Perspective
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into social media platforms is ushering in a new era, raising both exciting possibilities and serious concerns.João Leitão Figueiredo, a lawyer specializing in digital law, believes this shift will fundamentally change how we interact online and consume facts.
Figueiredo points too the growing proximity between figures like Donald Trump and Elon Musk, highlighting the potential for AI-powered tools to be used not just for efficiency but also for influencing public opinion. He warns that the combination of these powerful technologies with platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Meta, and TikTok could lead to a more sophisticated form of manipulation.
“With low digital literacy prevalent worldwide,” Figueiredo explains, “people will struggle to discern accurate information from subtle distortions.” He emphasizes the need to move beyond the term ”fake news,” recognizing that even seemingly innocuous deviations from the truth can have a profound impact.
Figueiredo draws parallels to Russia’s use of AI-driven disinformation campaigns and the strategies employed by the current US administration, suggesting a concerning trend of political actors leveraging these tools for their own gain.
While Europe has implemented legislation to combat disinformation and algorithm manipulation, Figueiredo believes more needs to be done. he calls for increased political courage and resources to effectively investigate and address these practices.
He expresses concern about the US, where he sees a potential for further deregulation and a closer alignment between political interests and tech giants. He urges Europe to maintain a strong, unified stance and resist becoming overly influenced by external forces.
Figueiredo envisions a future where europe takes a leading role in shaping the ethical and legal frameworks governing AI in social media, advocating for a multi-polar world where Europe stands as a distinct and influential bloc.
Can AI Be our Savior or Our Destroyer? A Lawyer’s Take on the future of Social Media
Time.news: João Leitão Figueiredo, a leading expert in digital law, we’re witnessing the rapid integration of AI into social media platforms. What are your views on this development adn its potential impact on our online interactions?
João Leitão Figueiredo: The integration of AI into social media is a double-edged sword. While it offers exciting possibilities for efficiency and personalization, it also presents serious concerns regarding manipulation and the spread of misinformation.
We’re seeing a convergence of powerful forces. Influential figures like Donald Trump and Elon Musk are increasingly embracing AI, blurring the lines between technology and political influence. Imagine the potential for AI-powered tools not just to curate content but also to subtly shape public opinion on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Meta, and TikTok.
Time.news: You mentioned the danger of subtle manipulation. Can you elaborate on that?
Figueiredo: The term “fake news” is often used, but it’s misleading. AI can generate incredibly convincing content that isn’t outright lies, but rather subtly distorts the truth. Imagine news articles with fabricated details, manipulated images, or even deepfakes. When digital literacy is low, as it is in many parts of the world, people may struggle to discern truth from these carefully crafted fabrications.
Time.news: Are there any real-world examples of this happening already?
Figueiredo: Unfortunately, yes. Russia’s use of AI-driven disinformation campaigns during the 2016 US election is a chilling example. We’re also seeing current US administrations employ similar strategies, highlighting a concerning trend. This raises serious questions about the future of democratic discourse if these tactics become more sophisticated.
Time.news: How can we mitigate these risks?
Figueiredo: Europe has taken some steps with legislation targeting disinformation and algorithm manipulation.However, more needs to be done. We need greater political courage and resources to effectively investigate and hold those accountable who exploit AI for malicious purposes.
Time.news: What about the US?
Figueiredo: I’m concerned about a potential for further deregulation and a closer alignment between political interests and tech giants in the US. This could lead to a less accountable and more risky online environment.
Time.news: What role can Europe play in this global landscape?
Figueiredo: Europe has the possibility to take a leading role in shaping ethical and legal frameworks governing AI in social media. We must advocate for a multi-polar world where Europe stands as a distinct and influential bloc, setting standards for responsible AI development and deployment.