Beyond the Screen: Media Ethics and the Risks of AI-Generated Political Content

Author

HONG ZIQI, Dr. Mohd Haizra Hashim


Abstract

 Generative artificial intelligence allows for cheap and fast production of political texts, images, audio, and videos. Although technologies like this can provide more public access to information, translation services, awareness raising and artistic expression, synthetic political media presents substantial ethical dangers when the materials generated by AI are used as factual proof. This research paper will discuss the ethical implications of AI-driven political content considering such essential values of media ethics as honesty, transparency, non-maleficence, accountability, impartiality, and respect for audience autonomy. Utilizing consequentialist ethics, deontology, and media ethics, it will examine the ethical duties of the content creators, political campaigns, digital platforms, journalists, and audiences. Artificial intelligence is not unethical per se. What matters from the ethical perspective are creator intentions, adequate content labeling, truthfulness and foreseeability of consequences. This research calls for mandatory labeling of realistic AI-generated political content, verifications of facts before publishing them, transparent error correction systems, appropriate platform regulations, and multilingual media literacy campaigns. Political communication should protect legitimate satire and creativity but reject any impersonation and fake evidence.



Keywords

artificial intelligence; political communication; media ethics; synthetic media; deepfake; misinformation; transparency



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References


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