Best of: What happens when computers can write like humans

We’re bringing you a timely best-of episode, given the recent advances in generative AI tools like ChatGPT. A couple years ago we interviewed Jeff Hancock, a Stanford professor of communication whose research explores the psychological and interpersonal processes at play when people communicate with each other and with computers. At the time of this conversation, ChatGPT wasn’t yet available to the public, but today Jeff’s insights about how such technologies impact the ways we communicate seem more relevant than ever. We hope you’ll take another listen and enjoy.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Jeffrey HancockJeff’s Lab: Stanford Social Media LabStanford’s AI Institute: Stanford HAIJeff and Jeremy Bailenson’s paper on deep fakes: The Social Impact of DeepfakesJeff's paper on AI accessibility: Not All AI are Equal: Exploring the Accessibility of AI-Mediated Communication TechnologyJeff’s paper on encountering fake news: Credibility Perceptions and Detection Accuracy of Fake News Headlines on Social MediaOriginal episode: Ep.177 What Happens When Computers Can Write Like Humans Website /  YouTubeConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Russ Altman introduces guest Jeff Hancock, a professor of communications at Stanford University.(00:03:04) Evolution of CommunicationHow social media and AI tools like spellcheck have changed the way we communicate.(00:04:08) AI in Everyday CommunicationThe role of AI in daily communication tasks, like email responses, and whether this is beneficial or problematic.(00:06:35) Authenticity and Bias in AI CommunicationThe potential biases in AI-generated language and its societal implications.(00:08:42) Large Language Models and Their CapabilitiesOverview of large language models like GPT-3 and their ability to generate human-like text.(00:10:34) Practical Uses and Implications of AI-Generated TextPractical applications of AI in generating text for marketing, education, and other fields.(00:12:18) Tailoring AI MessagesThe potential of AI to create personalized messages for different demographics.(00:14:49) Ethical Considerations in AI-Assisted WritingThe ethical dilemmas in education regarding AI-assisted writing.(00:17:15) AI and DisinformationThe risks associated with AI-generated disinformation and its impact on society.(00:21:06) AI in Advertising and MarketingAI's role in advertising and marketing, including the ethical considerations of using AI to create highly persuasive content.(00:22:38) Building Resilience Against DisinformationTips for individuals to build resilience against disinformation.(00:26:35) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.