By Uliana Galantseva
The question of AI replacing journalists is a pressing concern among many in the journalism field, including participants at THISAM 2023 (Thessaloniki Media Summer Academy). Throughout this year’s sessions, AI emerged as a recurring theme, sparking debates and speculations about the future of journalism.
Advanced AI systems like ChatGPT can indeed compose texts, create engaging headlines, and formulate interview questions. However, the unique attributes of human journalists - critical thinking, ethical considerations, rationality, and the ability to challenge ideas - remain irreplaceable. For instance, replicating the personal touch of an iconic interviewer like Larry King in an AI bot seems unimaginable.
While AI's capability to produce news articles comparable to human quality raises concerns, embracing these technological advancements could enhance journalism. AI can handle routine tasks, allowing journalists to concentrate on creating in-depth features, engaging stories, and insightful interviews, thus improving the overall quality of their work. It's also crucial to remember that AI, being artificial, is still less trusted than human journalists.
Journalists should view AI not as a threat but as a valuable tool for collaboration, optimizing efficiency and precision in their work. This partnership between journalists and AI could lead to innovative storytelling methods and new perspectives that resonate with audiences.
AI's ability to analyze large data sets in real-time can help journalists uncover trends and insights that might otherwise be missed. This data-driven approach, facilitated by AI rather than tools like SPSS and Python, can revolutionize journalists' work and enhance fact-based reporting.
Ethical considerations are paramount in the use of AI in journalism. Establishing clear principles for responsible and unbiased AI use is essential to avoid creating harmful content. Transparently disclosing AI's role in content creation is also vital for maintaining audience trust.
In conclusion, the integration of AI into journalism should be viewed as an opportunity for growth and innovation rather than a threat. The future of journalism will depend on professionals' ability to adapt and collaborate with technology, thereby enriching their roles and continuing to provide society with accurate and impactful information. This collaboration reaffirms journalism's vital role in shaping public discourse.
