Monday, May 1, 2023

Don't Fear AI Generated Content

 

Image from Wikimedia Commons.



Dr. Alice C. Linsley

Some readers have asked about Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its potential impact on writing for publication. Some have expressed concern that this may undermine the work of real writers. 

AI draws from a huge information database. That database is largely skewed toward sources that are popular and/or recognized as having expertise (science journals, academic journals, and marketing experts). AI generates content by analyzing and synthesizing data, and then creating content using that data. That said, AI does not replace human creativity. It does not generate unique perspectives. The writer alone does that. 

One concern about AI that should put people on guard is its potential to sway elections. AI can create AI-generated audio, robocalls, or text messages about a candidate and disperse them to millions in an instant. AI is used to "improve fundraising efficiency by targeting prospective donors and voters with increasing specificity."

Some bloggers have found that using AI writing can produce quality content with less effort. However, the AI generated images are not yet perfected, but the quality is better than ever. If the writing sometimes seems flat that is because there is no substitute for the individual's perspective and emotional tone.

AI is cost saving for corporations that market multiple brands. The corporation can produce marketing content faster and at a greatly reduced cost. 

Christian writers should be publishing regularly to add our vocabulary and perspective to the database upon which AI draws. Do not waste time hoping an editor will purchase your work. Do not wait for payment if you have something really pressing to say because by the time you find someone to purchase your piece it may no longer be relevant. 

That is why I publish something every day somewhere online. In addition to the 7 blogs I manage, I publish at sites such as Virtueonline, The North American Anglican, the Journal of the American Scientific Affiliation, and Christian Women in Science. AI is a tool that Christians should use to correct misinformation about the Gospel, to clarify who Jesus Christ is, to build up the Church, and to present the hopes and struggles of Christians around the world.

Yesterday I published this piece.



The day before yesterday I published this:



Do not be afraid of AI. It can serve the cause of good. Do not delay what you have to say. Create a blog and publish regularly. Do not concern yourself with recognition. That will come when your writing becomes prolific. I now have 2000+ pieces available from which AI can draw data. 

If you have questions, please comment here and I will respond.

Wishing you success in your writing lives!

Alice C. Linsley




1 comment:

Gillianmarykimber said...

Thank you... my husband in particular has been doing this since 2018 and increasingly since the pandemic. I am just starting. This is a timely encouragement.

Gillian Mary Kimber