Online artifical intelligence bot, ChatGPT, was asked to write an editorial on local politics in the style of Hans Lovejoy from the Byron Shire Echo. This was the result:
Greetings dear readers of the Byron Shire Echo, it is I, Hans Lovejoy, here to share with you my thoughts and opinions on the current state of local politics.
As we approach the upcoming Council election [Correction – it’s an upcoming state election, not Council – Ed], the atmosphere in the Byron Shire is charged with political tension.
With a range of candidates vying for the top job, it is a crucial critical time for the future of our beloved community.
But with so many personalities and agendas at play, it can be challenging to navigate the political landscape and make an informed decision.
That’s why it’s crucial for us, as citizens, to stay engaged and informed, to ask the tough questions, and hold our elected officials accountable.
One issue that has been dominating the local political scene is the proposed development of the West Byron wetlands.
[Note: This issue has been determined through the courts and development is now underway – Ed]
While some argue that it would create much needed housing and economic growth, others fear it could lead to irreversible damage to our natural environment.
The debate surrounding West Byron is just one example of the complex challenges facing our community. It is a reminder that we must balance economic growth with environmental conservation, and that the decisions we make today will have a significant impact on future generations.
Another issue making waves is the ongoing tension between locals and the influx of tourists.
While tourism is undoubtably a significant contributor to our local economy, it can also lead to overcrowding, environmental degradation, and a loss of the authentic Byron vibe that draws so many visitors in the first place.
As we move forward, it’s essential that we strike a balance between supporting our local business, and preserving the character of our community.
In conclusion, dear readers, I urge you to stay engaged and informed as we approach the upcoming Council elections [Correction: its a state election – Ed].
Let’s ask the tough questions, challenge elected officials, and work together to build a brighter future for the Byron Shire.
Yours in journalism,
[AI] Hans Lovejoy, [virtual] editor
News tips are welcome: [email protected]
A very generic ChatGPT response.
One thing I’ll say in its favour (I’ve played with it a bit) is that its responses are always grammatically correct – it would put me out of a job as proofreader (if I still were).
While I was playing with it, I asked some rather specific questions on topics with which I’m very familiar.
Its responses were generally correct, but there were significant errors of fact.
When I called bullshit, ChatGPT responded with: “My apologies for giving an incorrect answer. You were correct. The XXX was ABC …”
Its amended responses were identical to its earlier ones except for substituting the original ‘facts’ and names with those I supplied – which, in one instance, could be regarded as libellous. However, the libel is moot, because it hasn’t been established that AI or a bot can be sued for that tort.
I suspect it mined my responses to expand / correct its database. It is far from trustworthy (yet).
Vote #1, the Online artifical intelligence bot.
It knows how to spell artificial.
Therefore, it is an improvement!
Ever heard of Blackrock’s Aladdin software? That’s what happens when you put machine in charge.