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SXSW Audience Loudly Boos Video About How AI Is Awesome

Mar 14, 2024 - futurism.com
The South by Southwest (SXSW) festival this year faced backlash from audiences over its promotion of artificial intelligence (AI) and the US military's involvement. Attendees booed a pro-AI video screened before an unrelated film, with many expressing their displeasure on social media. The video featured tech journalist Kara Swisher and others promoting the benefits of AI, a message that was unpopular with many festival-goers.

In addition, over 80 artists dropped out of the festival in protest of the US military's sponsorship of events, following revelations of its role in the ongoing siege of Gaza. The military's presence at the festival was a surprise to many, leading to criticism from figures such as Palestinian-American tech CEO Ibrahim Batshon. The article suggests that these controversies indicate a need for change in the festival's traditions.

Key takeaways:

  • The South by Southwest (SXSW) festival faced backlash from audiences for promoting artificial intelligence (AI) in a sizzle reel before an unrelated rom-com.
  • Many attendees, including tech enthusiasts, were unhappy with the message that resistance to AI is futile and that every company should leverage AI for efficiency.
  • Over 80 artists dropped out of the festival in protest of the US military's sponsorship of events, following revelations of its involvement in the ongoing siege of Gaza.
  • The festival's alignment with AI and the military was seen as a surprise and a disappointment by many, suggesting that some pre-pandemic traditions should be reconsidered or abandoned.
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