The article discusses the implications of generative AI in content moderation and its dual role in enhancing and complicating online speech management. Generative AI offers improved methods for understanding and moderating user-generated content, potentially alleviating the burdens on human moderators who often face traumatic material. However, it also poses threats, making it easier to produce disinformation, fake news, and synthetic images that evade detection.
Industry experts express optimism about generative AI’s ability to improve content moderation at scale while acknowledging the risks of chaos from rampant disinformation campaigns. Historical instances, such as AI-generated propaganda during elections, highlight potential consequences, especially in fragile democracies and developing countries, where detection tools may be ineffective.
While generative AI can enhance content review processes, challenges remain in moderating complex situations like self-harm or violence. The article explores the potential for AI tools to assist moderators, yet also warns of ethical complications and inherent biases in AI models. The future balance between offensive and defensive uses of AI in moderating content is still uncertain, as societal pressures evolve between preserving freedom of speech and curbing harmful content.
