The random AI essay
This is a space I created to share “essays” I have asked ChatGPT to write on topics which I teach at Maastricht University. I am using this space for experimentation with different AI- and plagiarism-checkers. The content is not meant as any serious source of information!
Information disorders, defined as the spread of false, misleading, or manipulated information, have become increasingly prevalent in recent years, especially with the rise of digital media and social networking platforms. One of the most concerning aspects of information disorders is the emergence of deepfakes, which are manipulated images, videos, or audio files that convincingly depict events or statements that never occurred. In this essay, we will examine the phenomenon of information disorders, with a particular focus on deepfakes, and their implications for society and the digital space.
To begin with, it is crucial to understand the key concepts and terms associated with information disorders. Fake news, defined as false news stories designed to mislead readers, has become a ubiquitous term in political discourse. However, the term “fake news” is often used in a broad and imprecise manner, leading to misunderstandings and confusion. Farkas and Schou (2018) argue that “fake news” has become a floating signifier, which means that it is a term that can be applied to any news story that someone disagrees with, rather than a precise description of misinformation.
Moreover, misinformation can take many forms, such as propaganda, disinformation, and malinformation. Propaganda is the systematic dissemination of information, often with a political agenda, aimed at influencing the attitudes and behaviors of people. Disinformation refers to the intentional spread of false information with the aim of deceiving people. Malinformation, on the other hand, is the deliberate sharing of true but harmful information, such as private emails or images.
Deepfakes are a relatively new phenomenon, but they have already caused significant concern. Deepfakes are created using deep learning algorithms, which can convincingly manipulate images, videos, or audio files. Deepfakes can be used to create false events or statements that can be extremely convincing and challenging to detect. For instance, Dobber et al. (2021) found that microtargeted deepfakes, which are aimed at specific individuals or groups, can significantly alter political attitudes and behaviors.
The reasons behind the emergence of information disorders are complex and multifaceted. One of the primary reasons is the democratization of information, which has allowed anyone to create and share information. Social media platforms have also contributed to the spread of information disorders by enabling the viral spread of information, regardless of its accuracy. Moreover, the rise of disinformation campaigns by state actors, such as Russia’s interference in the 2016 US presidential election, has demonstrated how information disorders can be used to destabilize democracies.
The implications of information disorders, particularly deepfakes, are profound and far-reaching. In the political sphere, deepfakes can be used to discredit individuals or organizations, sow discord, and undermine trust in democratic institutions. Marin (2021) argues that during the COVID-19 pandemic, deepfakes were used to spread false information about the virus and vaccines, leading to confusion and mistrust. In the digital space, deepfakes can be used for cybercrime, such as identity theft and fraud.
The rise of information disorders has raised concerns about the role of digital platforms and their responsibility for curbing the spread of false information. Rauchfleisch and Kaiser (2021) argue that deplatforming, or the removal of extremist content from social media platforms, can be an effective way to combat the spread of disinformation. However, deplatforming can also lead to unintended consequences, such as the migration of extremist content to alternative platforms. Therefore, a comprehensive approach to combating information disorders should involve a combination of technological, regulatory, and educational solutions.
In conclusion, information disorders, particularly deepfakes, have emerged as a significant threat to democratic societies and the digital space. While the reasons behind the emergence of information disorders are complex…
OpenEdition suggests that you cite this post as follows:
Monika Barget (May 8, 2023). The random AI essay. INSULAE. Retrieved November 11, 2025 from https://doi.org/10.58079/qd9b
