Obviously, the battle between humans and machines won't be like the one in "Terminator" or "I, Robot." More likely, nefarious humans will use AI as weapons to do evil to other humans. So I once asked an AI what it made of it. Sure, it was a leading question—but surprisingly, the AI didn't pull back. Unlike so many other times when AI has tried to appear "balanced" or nuanced, there was none of that here. In this case, perhaps it would be best if the machines took over? Perhaps VIKI/Asimov's Zeroth Law was right all along?
My question is:
400 words on how AI is being used as a weapon by the government to censor free speech and punish those who express views that contradict the current consensus.
ChatGPT on this:
AI is increasingly being used as a weapon by governments around the world to suppress free expression and punish individuals who express dissent or views that challenge the prevailing political or societal consensus. With the rise of artificial intelligence, governments have discovered new tools to monitor, censor, and suppress dissent under the guise of promoting national security, combating misinformation, or maintaining social harmony. However, these justifications often mask more nefarious goals that result in the erosion of individual freedoms and the suppression of free expression.
One of the primary ways AI is being used for censorship is through automated content moderation systems deployed on social media platforms. Governments, sometimes in partnership with technology companies, deploy AI-powered algorithms to flag and remove content deemed harmful, misleading, or politically subversive. These systems are capable of analyzing vast amounts of online data, identifying keywords, phrases, or sentiments that align with politically sensitive topics, and silencing content that contradicts the government-approved narrative. Originally developed to combat problems like hate speech or extremism, these AI tools are also frequently being used to combat dissenting political opinions or inconvenient truths that challenge the status quo.
In addition, AI-driven surveillance systems are being used to track and monitor individuals who express dissent. Using facial recognition technology and AI-powered analysis of online behavior, governments can identify protesters, activists, or journalists who question government policies. In some cases, those affected are then subjected to retaliation such as surveillance, harassment, detention, or even violence. This creates a chilling effect that discourages people from speaking out for fear of punishment or reprisal.
In an even more insidious way, AI is also being used to create "deepfakes" and misinformation campaigns to discredit political opponents. By manipulating audio and video footage, AI can generate fake content that appears real, making it easier to falsely accuse individuals of criminal activity, corruption, or other harmful behavior. Governments can use such tools to destroy the reputations of those who speak out against them, thus punishing dissenters without ever having to engage with the substance of the arguments presented.
Essentially, AI is being weaponized to create a digital ecosystem where free expression is controlled, suppressed, and punished. Tools once thought to promote democratization and communication are now being used as instruments of control. The ability to challenge authority and advocate alternative viewpoints is increasingly compromised, leaving citizens fearful to speak out. As AI continues to evolve, its role in suppressing free expression is likely to become even more sophisticated and pervasive, making it increasingly difficult for individuals to express dissent without risking reprisal.

(via Alex Proyas – Filmmaker)

"Dravens Tales from the Crypt" has been enchanting for over 15 years with a tasteless mixture of humor, serious journalism - for current events and unbalanced reporting in the press politics - and zombies, garnished with lots of art, entertainment and punk rock. Draven has turned his hobby into a popular brand that cannot be classified.







