Researchers have discovered that artificial intelligence (AI) can change beliefs in conspiracy theories, challenging the idea that people who believe these ideas cannot be swayed. Common conspiracy theories include claims that the moon landing was faked or that microchips were placed in COVID-19 vaccines, which can sometimes have serious consequences.
The study, led by Dr. Thomas Costello from American University, showed that AI can help people think more critically and question their beliefs. The researchers tested 2,190 people who believed in conspiracy theories using an AI tool called “DebunkBot.” Participants shared their conspiracy beliefs with the AI and had a three-round conversation. Afterward, they rated how much they still believed in the conspiracy on a scale of 1 to 100. Those who talked with the AI showed a 20% drop in belief, while those who discussed unrelated topics saw little change.
Dr. Costello explained that about 25% of people who started the experiment believing in a conspiracy no longer believed it afterward. While most people only became a little more skeptical, some completely changed their minds.
The effects of the AI lasted at least two months and worked for almost all conspiracy theories, except those based on factual information. This shows that AI could play a key role in reducing misinformation, especially on social media. However, some experts, like Professor Sander van der Linden from the University of Cambridge, questioned whether people would be willing to interact with AI in real life and how the AI gained their trust through empathy and affirmation.
Despite these questions, the study highlights the potential of AI to help combat conspiracy theories.
Source: ndtv
