We’re bringing you a timely best-of episode, given the recent advances in generative AI tools like ChatGPT. A couple years ago we interviewed Jeff Hancock, a Stanford professor of communication whose research explores the psychological and interpersonal processes at play when people communicate with each other and with computers. At the time of this conversation, ChatGPT wasn’t yet available to the public, but today Jeff’s insights about how such technologies impact the ways we communicate seem more relevant than ever. We hope you’ll take another listen and enjoy.

Episode Reference Links:

Stanford Profile: Jeffrey Hancock
Jeff’s Lab: Stanford Social Media Lab
Stanford’s AI Institute: Stanford HAI
Jeff and Jeremy Bailenson’s paper on deep fakes: The Social Impact of Deepfakes
Jeff's paper on AI accessibility: Not All AI are Equal: Exploring the Accessibility of AI-Mediated Communication Technology
Jeff’s paper on encountering fake news: Credibility Perceptions and Detection Accuracy of Fake News Headlines on Social Media
Original episode: Ep.177 What Happens When Computers Can Write Like Humans Website / YouTube

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Host Russ Altman introduces guest Jeff Hancock, a professor of communications at Stanford University.

(00:03:04) Evolution of Communication

How social media and AI tools like spellcheck have changed the way we communicate.

(00:04:08) AI in Everyday Communication

The role of AI in daily communication tasks, like email responses, and whether this is beneficial or problematic.

(00:06:35) Authenticity and Bias in AI Communication

The potential biases in AI-generated language and its societal implications.

(00:08:42) Large Language Models and Their Capabilities

Overview of large language models like GPT-3 and their ability to generate human-like text.

(00:10:34) Practical Uses and Implications of AI-Generated Text

Practical applications of AI in generating text for marketing, education, and other fields.

(00:12:18) Tailoring AI Messages

The potential of AI to create personalized messages for different demographics.

(00:14:49) Ethical Considerations in AI-Assisted Writing

The ethical dilemmas in education regarding AI-assisted writing.

(00:17:15) AI and Disinformation

The risks associated with AI-generated disinformation and its impact on society.

(00:21:06) AI in Advertising and Marketing

AI's role in advertising and marketing, including the ethical considerations of using AI to create highly persuasive content.

(00:22:38) Building Resilience Against Disinformation

Tips for individuals to build resilience against disinformation.

(00:26:35) Conclusion

Connect With Us:

Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything Website

Connect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / Mastodon

Connect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook

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Best of: What happens when computers can write like humans