Microsoft unveils deepfake tech that's too good to release
Microsoft demonstrated VASA-1, an AI framework for creating realistic talking videos from images, text, and voice, but decided against releasing it due to ethical concerns. [ more ]
A new study on animal consciousness should change people's views on eating meat-but it won't
Animals can experience suffering, supported by scientific evidence, requiring ethical consideration in decision-making regarding their wellbeing. [ more ]
Gannett fired an editor for talking to me - Poynter
Sarah Leach, an editor at Gannett, was fired for sharing information with a reporter from a competing media company, raising concerns about company ethics and employee surveillance. [ more ]
Shut Out: When sources won't engage with journalists - Poynter
Journalists facing obstacles in gaining access to information from sources in positions of power can hinder independent reporting and limit the public's right to know. [ more ]
Some wildlife photographers resort to unethical practices like digitally manipulating photos, staging scenes, and using animals in unsuitable ways to win contests. [ more ]
Democrats fear fascism, and Republicans worry about a lack of values
The 2024 presidential race between President Biden and former President Donald Trump is extremely close, with divided opinions on the country's future and what values children should be taught. [ more ]
Grayn's Inaugural Collection Rejects the Allure of Fast Furniture
Grayn focuses on sustainable furniture production, prioritizing longevity and ethical practices to counter the negative impact of fast furniture. [ more ]
Feds appoint "AI doomer" to run US AI safety institute
The US AI Safety Institute appointed Paul Christiano, who has expressed concerns about AI development leading to potential 'doom,' as head of AI safety. [ more ]
Richmond leaders may end practice of letting family members join city boards
The Richmond City Council is considering a nepotism ordinance to prevent councilmembers and staff from appointing family and business associates to city positions.
The ordinance would allow current family members on boards to finish their terms but prevent new appointments. [ more ]
A.I. chatbots can exhibit political biases that impact user interactions.
A preprint study reveals that state-of-the-art A.I. language models often lean left of center and libertarian in their political orientations. [ more ]
Star Wars: Battlefront Classic Collection seems to have included a mod without the creator's permission, even though Aspyr said it wouldn't in the final release
Star Wars: Battlefront Classic Collection faced launch issues with servers, including unauthorized mod use from a veteran creator. [ more ]