Abstract
Following the rise of AI-generated content, activists’ content creation and reproduction practices have begun to transform. However, it remains noteworthy that research on the use of gen-AI (generative AI) in activism remains limited. This study examines the adoption of gen-AI in content production for activism within the framework of its perceived compatibility with activists’ values. Designed with a phenomenological approach, this study aims to evaluate the role of generative AI in activist content production processes while also identifying the challenges and benefits associated with adopting this technology. Nine semi-structured interviews were conducted with animal rights activists to understand their perspectives on gen-AI adoption. The interview questions were adapted from the study conducted by Avcı-Yücel and Koçak-Usluer (2016) on the factors influencing perceived compatibility in the adoption of information and communication technologies (ICT) based on Rogers’ definition of perceived compatibility. According to the research findings, animal rights activists evaluate AI based on its practical benefits in content production. Key advantages of AI include fast access to information, quick information scanning, and rapid content creation. However, they also raised concerns about AI reproducing mainstream cultural discourses, particularly those reflecting speciesist and sexist biases. Additionally, most interviewees expressed ecological concerns regarding the high energy consumption of generative AI. Despite these concerns, they continue to use the technology, albeit with a sense of contradiction.
Presenters
Seyma Esin ErbenStudent, Postdoctoral Intern, Faculty of Media and Knowledge Sciences, Msida, Malta
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Artificial intelligence, Activism, Content generation
