AI’s moment of truth

AI is creating increasingly convincing, but fake, versions of reality. What does this mean for professions that pursue veracity, such as the law and journalism?

Artificial intelligence (AI) tools are increasingly being used in truth-seeking missions, but the truth is an elusive and nuanced concepts in areas such as law and journalism. As it relates to journalism, a majority of reporters are not qualified to use AI software or hardware, nor to speak or write about the subject in meaningful ways.

As it relates to the legal system, Burkhard Schafer, Professor of Computational Legal Theory at Edinburgh Law School, says “I don’t think there’s any realistic prospect of judges being replaced by AI.” However, he does not deny that certain tasks and jobs within the profession, like many notary services, will be lost to automation soon. 

“It happened to the weavers, it will happen to you. Don’t compete with AI where it is strongest, compete where you, as a human, are strongest," adds Professor Schafer as he analyses and reflects on how AI may impact the future of law.

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