Ethical Considerations: Generative Artificial Intelligence Technologies in Political Campaigns

Abstract

This paper investigates the extent to which the use of generative AI (Artificial Intelligence) poses ethical dilemmas in political campaigns. By reviewing the newest literature on the topic, this paper examines the problems associated with the creation of ethics guidelines on AI-generated content (AIGC) use. In pre-existing guidelines, certain vocabulary such as “transparency,” “dignity,” and “freedom & autonomy” were most frequently repeated. This shows not just how prevalent these ethical issues are but also that proposed guidelines can become repetitive whilst AI's ethical dilemmas still have to be dealt with. With the analysis of case studies in France, India, and the US (United States) we can see the impacts of AIGC on political elections within countries with diverse levels of AIGC regulation. France and India have looser regulations on AIGC - but the US, whilst lacking regulation in some states, has adopted the strictest measures in others. In the absence of harmonized legislation, international ethical guidelines have a key place in the discussion. This paper addresses the possibilities of incorporating AI systems that flag negative and unethical social media posts. The paper suggests a direction for private and public institutions to integrate new beneficial AI-based countermeasures in future political campaigns to mitigate harm. By combining these measures with bringing more attention to the creation of guidelines surrounding AIGC, ethical dilemmas can be lessened.