The Subtle Value of Human Authenticity in an Age of AI Content
Lately, I have noticed an overwhelming surge of AI-generated videos flooding YouTube. At first, it seemed like a novelty - a glimpse into the capabilities of modern technology. But as the volume increased, it became increasingly apparent how shallow and soulless much of this content feels. The vertical short video streams, despite their dopamine-driven nature, often preserve a sense of authenticity. There is improvisation, personality, and a human presence, even in thirty-second bursts. The AI “documentaries,” however, lack any of this life. They are technically competent, but the random sequences of stock footage, the sterile narration, and the algorithmically optimized pacing make them feel hollow. One could turn off the video entirely and follow the story as if it were a podcast, losing nothing in terms of visual meaning. It is tempting to hope that mass audiences will reject these AI productions because they lack depth. And yet, I recognize that the majority of viewers are not cons...