new terms: 'the dead internet theory'

By Ouyang Yu

 AI Overview

The 
Dead Internet Theory is a conspiracy theory suggesting the internet has become almost entirely composed of AI-generated content and bot activity, intentionally designed to manipulate human users, steer opinions, and maximize engagement. Originating around 2016, it posits that organic, human-driven content has been replaced by, or dominated by, algorithmic, artificial interactions. 
Key Aspects of the Dead Internet Theory:
  • Rise of the Bots: Proponents argue that the vast majority of social media interaction—likes, comments, shares—is generated by bots rather than people, creating a "vicious cycle" of artificial engagement.
  • AI-Generated Content:
     The web is increasingly flooded with "AI slop" or synthetic media, such as AI-generated images, articles, and posts aimed at maximizing advertising revenue
    .
  • Algorithmic Manipulation: The theory alleges that corporations and governments use these methods to control online discourse, influence consumer behavior, and manage population sentiment.
  • The "Dead" Aspect: The term "dead" implies that the internet, once a vibrant space for human interaction, has become a "zombie" network populated by automated, non-human entities. 
While the 100% "dead" claim is not true, the theory highlights growing concerns about the proliferation of AI, the decline of authentic content, and the dominance of algorithmic curation, according to BBC and UNSW Sydney. 
Origins and Evolution:
  • The theory gained traction on fringe forums in the late 2010s, theconversation.comreports, and has become more prominent with the advancement of generative AI tools, as noted by ECPR.
  • It serves as a lens to view the increasing homogenization of online platforms, where engagement metrics often take precedence over genuine communication, says Harvard University. 

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