How ChatGPT Could Revolutionize Politics
A recent AI-powered chatbot named ChatGPT developed by OpenAI has caught the attention of politicians worldwide, with some politicians seeking its help for various purposes. The bot, widely popular for its ability to generate texts, has been used to write poetry, pass exams, and even help draft laws. However, some experts warn against the rapid uptake of the tool, which is also famous for fabricating “facts.”
Role of ChatGPT in Politics
The AI chatbot's ability to generate texts has been keenly used in politics. In recent times, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida became a direct hit from the bot when opposition MP generated questions using ChatGPT. Unbeknownst to the Prime Minister, his adversary had generated the questions with ChatGPT; he generated answers that he claimed were “more sincere” than Kishida’s. The PM subsequently hit back that his answers had been “more specific”.
Aside from generating questions and answers, the bot has been used to write speeches and even help draft laws. Last month, Congresswoman Nancy Mace gave a speech at a Senate committee enumerating potential uses and harms of AI. Local politician Barry Finegold had also used ChatGPT to draft a bill for the Massachusetts Senate, which reportedly introduced original ideas targeted at restraining the power of chatbots and AI.
While the bot has been capable of generating legal texts and introducing original ideas, lawmakers have been advised not to rush to use the tool. Much remains unclear about critical issues such as environmental impact, bias, and the ethics of OpenAI. According to Anne Meuwese from Leiden University in the Netherlands, the added value seems limited for now.
Malleability of Chatbots
The malleability of chatbots is central to their appeal. However, it goes hand in hand with the tendency to generate untruths, making AI text generators potentially hazardous allies for the political class. The ChatGPT has already sparked controversy over its apparent liberal bias. Still, the bot has also been capable of generating unique ideas, particularly for political staffers on the campaign trail. The AI-powered chatbot has the potential to transform the political space, as suggested by David Karpf of George Washington University in the US.
However, Karpf cautions politicians against using ChatGPT predominantly and advises that the bots can be trained to represent a political point of view. He sees AI as useful for generating necessary messages that were not intended to be masterpieces, such as emails asking for donations.
In conclusion, while the ChatGPT has significant potential in politics, caution should be exercised in its use. The tool could become hazardous if used without thorough consideration of the ethical implications of AI-generated texts and the potential for generating untruths in political discourse.
