Seeing is Believing
Thu, Nov 09
Today we turn our attention back to visual media, this time investigating the latest developments in AI-driven image synthesis. Digital image synthesis isn't a new concept, as it was possible to create photorealistic scenes using computer graphics as far back as the 1990s. However, a recent innovation has been the automation of the image synthesis process through the use of sophisticated machine learning techniques. We'll discuss the technologies behind this development, and look at their social implications. From Deepfakes to new genres of digital artwork, there is much to be concerned and excited about when it comes to AI creating imagery.
We have three main in-class learning goals. By the end of lecture today you will:
- Gain familiarity with generative models for image synthesis.
- Learn about various deceptive practices that incorporate image synthesis.
- Appreciate the mainstream creative use of image synthesis technologies.
The slides for today's lecture.
Read This:
Kashmir Hill and Jeremy White report on AI Generated Synthetic Faces for the New York Times
Bill Whitaker speculates on How Deepfakes Could Soon Change Our World for 60 Minutes
Jan Kallberg and Col. Stephen Hamilton warn that the US Military Must Prepare for POW Concerns in the Deepfake Era in C4ISRNET Magazine
Karen Hao investigates A Horrifying New AI App that Swaps Women into Porn Videos With a Click for the MIT Technology Review
Rick McElroy writes in VentureBeat that Deepfakes in Cyberattacks Aren’t Coming, They’re Already Here
Tom Simonite reveals in Wired that Deepfakes Are Now Making Business Pitches
Mordechai Rorvig writes in Vice that the AI-Generated Art Scene Explodes as Hackers Create Groundbreaking New Tools
The following optional readings provide additional examples of places where image synthesis is appearing:
Are These the Hidden Deepfakes in the Anthony Bourdain Movie?
Deepfake satellite imagery poses a not-so-distant threat, warn geographers
Researchers Create 'Master Faces' to Bypass Facial Recognition
Nvidia faked part of a press conference with a CGI CEO
The World Needs Deepfake Experts to Stem This Chaos
Facebook scientists say they can now tell where deepfakes have come from
Do This:
Writing Reflection 08
See the instructions posted on the assignment's page.
This writing reflection is due on 11/14 at 5pm.
This Week's Dialogue Group Meeting
Find at least one hour to meet with your group to discuss the prompt of the week: What concerns about AI are overhyped at the present moment?
Schedule your group meeting for next week. The new prompt is: What concerns about AI are legitimate at the present moment?