arXiv:2606.29121v1 Announce Type: cross Abstract: Public discourse about artificial intelligence (AI) often uses anthropomorphic language: language that attributes human capabilities and characteristics to the system. This practice has been criticized for setting misleading expectations, inflating claims, and fueling hype around AI, which may distort public understanding of AI and impact policy priorities. We study the effects of anthropomorphic framing by comparing changes in participants' perceptions (N=815) when reading passages with and without anthropomorphic language, designed to reflect
This research is emerging as AI systems become more ubiquitous and the public discourse surrounding them intensifies, prompting a need for clearer communication strategies.
Understanding the impact of anthropomorphic language on AI perception is crucial for policymakers, developers, and the public to foster realistic expectations and inform responsible AI development and governance.
A clearer understanding of how language shapes public perception of AI allows for more deliberate communication strategies, potentially mitigating hype and managing expectations more effectively.
- · AI ethicists
- · Policymakers
- · Transparent AI developers
- · AI marketing teams
- · Sensationalist media
- · Companies overstating AI capabilities
Public and regulatory bodies will gain a more accurate understanding of AI's actual capabilities and limitations.
This improved understanding could lead to more nuanced AI policy and regulations, focusing on real-world impacts rather than speculative fears or exaggerated promises.
Long-term, a more informed public discourse might enable healthier integration of AI into society, avoiding backlash from unmet expectations or overblown hype cycles.
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Read at arXiv cs.AI