Discourse on the role and impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the media tends to veer from fears about robots replacing humans to hopes that could boost quality journalism. Perspectives on AI are shaped by normative ideas of what journalism was, is and could be, shaped by the expertise and experiences of practitioners, scholars and audiences. It echoes discourses of the early 2000s and 2010s, when internet and social media were either going to foster a more democratic digital space, or create a dystopian era where viral falsehoods spread. The reality lies somewhere between hope and disillusionment. This talk explores how AI necessitates a reassessment of the boundary between human and machine, together with broader questions about the nature of media work and consumption.
ABOUT THE PRESENTER
Alfred Hermida PhD is professor and former director (2015-2020) at the School of Journalism, Writing, and Media at the University of British Columbia, and co-founder of The Conversation Canada. With over 25 years of experience in digital journalism, his research addresses the digital transformation of news, media innovation, and AI in journalism. His books include Data Journalism and the Regeneration of News (Routledge, 2019), co-authored with Mary Lynn Young, and Tell Everyone: Why We Share and Why It Matters (DoubleDay, 2014), winner of the 2015 National Business Book Award. His current research focuses on how the future of journalism is being shaped by innovation practices, business models and policy frameworks. Before joining UBC in 2006, he was a BBC TV, radio and online journalist for 16 years, including four as a correspondent in North Africa and the Middle East.
Date: Tuesday 12 November 2024, 12:00-2:00pm.
Location: Seminar Room S226, A20 John Woolley Building, The University of Sydney.
