The author also points out that the LLMs used in the study were not unbiased truth-seeking machines, but rather followed a script to counter any conspiracy belief chosen by the participant. The author concludes by warning of the potential societal transformation that could occur if AI-instructed brainwashing is deployed on a large scale. The author also raises questions about who should have the power to decide what constitutes a conspiracy and what information should be known by society.
Key takeaways:
- A new research study has shown that AI can effectively reduce conspiracy beliefs, even among those who strongly identify with such beliefs.
- The study demonstrated several notable effects, including a 20% reduction in belief among participants, a spill-over effect where reduction in one conspiracy belief reduced belief in others, and a viral effect where participants changed their social behavior.
- The research paper suggests that AI could be used for widespread social engineering, but also warns that it could be used irresponsibly to convince people to believe in conspiracies.
- The author of the article expresses concern about the potential misuse of AI for brainwashing and manipulation, arguing that no one should have the power to clandestinely manipulate what others believe.