What is generative AI?

Generative AI refers to artificial intelligence systems that are able to generate new, original content based on a set of input data or parameters (usually a 'prompt'). These systems are designed to learn the patterns and structures of the input data and use this knowledge to create novel outputs that are similar in style or content to the input. Prompts are used to specify certain characteristics or elements that should be included in the generated image, such as specific objects, people, or scenes.

What are the ethical challenges of generative AI?

Plagiarism

There is a risk that generative AI systems can be used to create content that is similar to the work of existing artists or that uses their work without permission. As the AI behind CPUmade is trained on a dataset that does include the work of existing artists, the system can generate new content that is similar in style or subject matter to the work it was trained on, potentially leading to the creation of content that is similar to the work of existing artists. This is particularly likely when the prompt used contains an artist’s name.

Competition

There is also a concern that AI systems could potentially be used to create content that is of a similar quality to that produced by human creatives, and that this could lead to a reduction in the demand for human artists and other creatives. This could be particularly challenging for early-career creatives who may be more vulnerable to competition from AI systems.

Environment

AI isn’t great for the planet. Image generation requires a lot of computing power, and all that computing power requires a lot of energy. That energy has to come from somewhere, and it often comes from burning fossil fuels like coal and gas, which releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere and contributes to climate change.

In addition to the energy used by the AI system itself, there's also the impact of manufacturing all of the hardware and software that goes into the system. Making computers and other electronic devices requires a lot of energy and resources, and generates waste and pollution.