AI in Society
Research
Recent advancements in AI voice cloning are profoundly transforming the creative industries. At the same time, public debates are emerging around its potential ethical implications and dangers. The sophistication and realism of these tools, which are becoming increasingly difficult to distinguish from real voices, has caused widespread concern. Their accessibility and ease of use have also raised fears about potential misuse, particularly following several instances of malicious activity and exploitation that have caused considerable harm. The use of unauthorised voice clones of celebrities, as well as various scams and fraudulent incidents, has been extensively covered in the media. By examining existing academic research, media coverage and online discourse, this work seeks to assess public opinion on AI voice cloning.
Using a sociological lens, this project addresses cultural and philosophical questions about authenticity, human identity, and the future of human creativity. The insights gained here aim to contribute to the ongoing dialogue around AI ethics, offering guidance for future policies to ensure that they align with public interest and safety, and societal values, and to emphasise the importance of public input for the development of legal regulations around the protection of a voice.