Abstract
In this research, I explore the usage of the term ‘deepfake pornography’ in media discourse, which describes the creation and/or distribution of sexualised, non-consensual images using artificial intelligence (AI). Through a feminist lens and drawing on a literature synthesis, I discuss how ‘deepfake pornography’ is employed in media discourse, problematising its widespread utilisation as it does not capture the extent of the harm caused. The problems I explore include that ‘deepfake pornography’ terminology fails to distinguish between pornographic content featuring fictional characters and sexualised deepfake content featuring images/videos of people without their consent. The latter is an example of Image-Based Sexual Abuse (IBSA), the creation and/or distribution of private sexual images non-consensually, including AI-created images. The second problem with IBSA ‘deepfake pornography’ is that the term minimises the issue of consent or lack thereof. Referring to the images/videos as ‘pornography’ categorises them within various content created consensually for wide distribution with sexual gratification in mind. Linking to this problem, the term ‘deepfake pornography’ also minimises the harm experienced by victim-survivors. It disallows victim-survivors the opportunity to name their experiences without referring to them as ‘pornography’. Also, the role of AI and ‘fakeness’ suggested in ‘deepfake’ implies a separation between the victim-survivor and the ‘fake’ content created. Hence, the final problem reflects semantics. Like the term ‘revenge pornography’ to refer to IBSA, ‘deepfake pornography’ is widely used in media discourse without being adequately defined. This research note contributes an original discussion to conversations on emerging technology and digital meanings.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Media Discourse, Deepfake Pornography, Artificial Intelligence, Feminist Lens, Literature Synthesis
