On “Artificial Intelligence” and Hate Speech on Social Media Platforms
New York University Hosts a Lecture and Comprehensive Dialogue with the Secretary-General of the Muslim World League
New York:
New York University hosted His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, the Secretary-General of the Muslim World League and Chairman of the Organization of Muslim Scholars, who delivered a lecture followed by a comprehensive dialogue with a select group of university academics and invited guests.
The meeting discussed several topics related to the use of artificial intelligence in promoting hate speech through social media platforms, in addition to highlighting the collaborative role of community institutions, with a focus on the religious role in combating such discourse — particularly through studying its causes and treatments. His Excellency reviewed examples of these causes and proposed models for addressing them, based on extensive surveys and studies.
The event also addressed the most significant challenges, opportunities, experiences, and proposals connected to the topic. It explored details related to the automated generation of content using AI technologies to produce texts, images, or video clips that may contain discriminatory or inflammatory material. It also discussed algorithmic targeting through the analysis of users’ behavior and interests, directing divisive and polarizing content toward specific groups in order to increase engagement.
The event further examined the digital amplification of content through automated and coordinated accounts (Bots & Coordinated Networks), which contribute to the spread of hate speech and misinformation, as well as the manipulation of audio and visual content using “deepfake” technologies, which may be exploited to defame individuals or groups and incite hostility against them. It also discussed the impact of recommendation algorithms in promoting provocative or extremist content due to the high levels of engagement such content generates.
His Excellency stated that the use of artificial intelligence in promoting hate speech raises a precise legal issue centered on achieving a balance between guaranteeing freedom of expression within its legitimate scope and protecting society from inflammatory content, while also defining the legal responsibility of digital actors and technology platforms.
