Impacts of the popularization of artificial intelligence on the three principles of information integrity

Introduction: In recent years, to combat attacks against trends such as disinformation, hate speech, and conspiracy theories, the concept of information integrity has been proposed within multilateral international organizations such as the UN and the G20. However, the impacts brought about by the recent popularization of generative artificial intelligence (GAI) tools are not yet present in the documents that present the concept. Objective: This study seeks to analyze to what extent the issues and challenges brought about by GAI impact the promotion of information integrity. Methodology: The study was conducted using institutional documents produced in recent years as its object. Among the various elements that make up the concept, its three fundamental principles were chosen: accuracy, consistency, and reliability. For the critical analysis of these principles, Jürgen Habermas’s theory of communicative action was used. Following an analysis of recent research on GAI, some of the risks and problems brought about by GAI were identified and systematized, and analyzed in light of Habermas’s theory, correlated with the three principles of information integrity. Results: In recent years, the popularization of the use of generative artificial intelligence (GAI) has brought new challenges to the promotion of information integrity. Specifically, regarding the three principles, AI has brought aspects such as increased disinterest in truth, compromised cognitive authorities, opacity of content production criteria, algorithmic discrimination, complexity of processes to distinguish truth from falsehood, and compromised cognitive authorities. Conclusion: GAI has brought several positive aspects, such as time optimization, increased efficiency, and accessibility to large amounts of content. At the same time, it has brought evidence that threatens information integrity and, consequently, science, democracy, environmental protection, and public health. It is believed that new forms of information mediation are possible to ensure healthier, safer, and more inclusive information ecosystems. Thus, the issues raised by generative artificial intelligence need to be considered in documents and actions that promote information integrity.