“Machines That Fail Us”, Season 2, Episode 1: How AI Powers Disinformation
In the first season of “Machines That Fail Us”, our focus was to explore a fundamental question: what do AI errors reveal about their societal impact and our future with artificial intelligence? Through engaging discussions with global experts from journalism, activism, entrepreneurship, and academia, we examined how AI and its shortcomings are already influencing various sectors of society. Alongside analyzing present challenges, we envisioned strategies for creating more equitable and effective AI systems.
As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into our lives, we decided to expand these conversations in the new season, delving into additional areas where machine learning, generative AI, and their societal effects are making a significant mark. This season begins by examining AI’s role in the spread of misinformation, disinformation, and the ways generative AI has been used to orchestrate influence campaigns. Are we unknowingly falling victim to machine-generated falsehoods? With 2024 being a record year for global elections, we will explore the extent to which AI-driven disinformation has shaped democratic processes. Has it truly had an impact, and if so, how?
In this episode, we are joined by Craig Silverman, an award-winning journalist, author, and one of the foremost authorities on online disinformation, fake news, and digital investigations. Currently reporting for ProPublica, Craig specializes in topics such as voting, disinformation, online manipulation, and the role of digital platforms.
“Machines That Fail Us” S2E1 | Artificial Lies and Synthetic Media: How AI Powers Disinformation
The first season of “Machines That Fail Us” has been made possible thanks to a grant provided by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF)’s “Agora” scheme, whereas the second one is supported by the University of St. Gallen’s Communications Department. The podcast is produced by the Media and Culture Research Group at the Institute for Media and Communications Management. Dr. Philip Di Salvo, the main host, works as a researcher and lecturer at the University of St.Gallen.