Fake It 'Til You Fake It
Advances in AI-powered photo editing, such as object removal on smartphones, are blurring the line between authentic and fabricated images, raising questions about trust in visual media. Commenters compare these tools to earlier technologies like Photoshop, auto‑tune, and even guns, debating whether the real problem is the tools themselves or how easily people can now deceive—intentionally or not. Alongside concerns about misinformation, copyright, and unrealistic social expectations, some argue that being forced to treat all images as potentially untrustworthy may actually bring us closer to a more honest understanding of how mediated and subjective images have always been.
History and Continuity of Image Fakery
- Commenters note that photographic manipulation is as old as photography, citing 19th‑century fakes and a 2012 museum exhibition.
- Some argue today’s tools mainly lower the skill and time barrier, not the underlying behavior.
- Others say ease and ubiquity change the ethics: “trivial” deception is more tempting and more commonplace.
Tools, Responsibility, and Blame
- One camp: tools (Photoshop, AI, guns, knives) are neutral; only users are morally responsible.
- Opposing view: design and data choices matter; generative AI is built on unconsented labor and shifts economic and moral power.
- Debate over whether we should regret inventions that enable large‑scale harm (nuclear weapons, AI, even the internet).
Generative AI, Writing, and Education
- Comparison between AI‑written essays and old‑style plagiarism: same behavior, but vastly easier now.
- Concern that democratized cheating forces institutions to reassess what grades and credentials mean.
- One claim: generative AI’s primary purpose is education and productivity; others openly question this.
Photography, AI, and Skill
- Disagreement over whether AI can “know” good composition and lighting.
- Some photographers argue AI cannot replace the learned craft; others note AI already optimizes photos and that aesthetic success for end‑users may not require skill.
- Pixel‑style automatic edits are praised for accessibility but criticized for overprocessed, “plastic” skin with limited user control.
Trust, Evidence, and Journalism
- Several see a “death spiral of trust” where all images and cultural artifacts become dubious.
- Counterpoint: this may actually correct over‑trust in photos, which were always selective, subjective slices of reality.
- Professional newsrooms already verify provenance, but under‑resourced outlets often cannot, increasing risk.
Reality, Metaverse, and Social Change
- Some speculate a future where personalized virtual worlds matter more than shared reality; others call this unrealistic or harmful.
- Debate over whether rapid change is a modern phenomenon or has always characterized human societies.
- A few predict live, in‑person interactions will grow more valuable as online media becomes less trusted.