From Hype to Reality: Demystifying AI Through Baseline Research

Artificial intelligence has transformed the way we live, work, and interact. It has been woven into the fabric of our lives, creating the perception that “intelligent” machines could be a solution for nearly all of humanity’s challenges. However, that perception has been surrounded by hype, misunderstanding, and misinformation. 

Based on our research findings, the hype is often disseminated by profit-driven actors that emphasize the potential of AI with little scrutiny of what actually works, what might need further investigation, and what impact these systems may have on society. Journalism is indispensable for raising questions about transparency, ethical implications, regulation, and accountability in deploying AI systems.

Aiming to address this shortfall, the Pulitzer Center has developed a baseline study to support initiatives that contribute to more impactful AI storytelling. The main goals of this study are: 

• Establishing a baseline of knowledge across the organization to inform our staff, partners, and stakeholders, and guide priorities on AI reporting and civic engagement
• Gathering the perspectives of a diverse group of experts about AI reporting 
• Understand key topics and gaps in coverage and knowledge of AI Accountability 
• Identifying opportunities to improve and increase coverage, build capacity, and collaborate and investigate, both in terms of reporting and raising public awareness
• Understanding the central issues that need to be communicated around accountability and socioeconomic impacts while taking underrepresented voices into consideration
• Identifying key stakeholders and audiences; gauging public levels of knowledge and awareness; and exploring ways to measure impact
• Finding opportunities for engagement and networking

If you want to know more about our reporting, please visit our AI initiative page.

Credits:

President and CEO: Lisa Gibbs

Research concepts and executive coordination: Flora Pereira

Authors and research leads: Bianca Fermiano and Paula Goerg

Project coordination: Bruna Wagner and Maria Karienova

Digital researchers: Alonso Balbuena, Gustavo Faleiros, Jonatan Rodríguez, Maria Karienova, and Sarah Swan

Graphic design: Natan Aquino

Editors: Bruna Wagner, Donnalie Jamnah, Flora Pereira, Maria Karienova, Marina Walker Guevara, and Sarah Swan

Proofreaders: Alexandra Waddell and Dana Thompson