Is AI Militating for Racism? An Analysis of Content Moderation

As we reflect on Black History Month, it is crucial to scrutinize how technology, particularly AI content moderation, impacts our society. The recent arrest of Tyler Boebert, the son of Congressman Lauren Boebert, has sparked a significant discussion about racial biases in these systems.

The Boebert Case: A Wake-Up Call

Tyler Boebert, the son of Congressman Lauren Boebert, was recently arrested for 22 charges in connection with a series of thefts in Rifle, Colorado. As his mother appeals to voters to overlook her family's chaotic background, one must grapple with the question: Does AI content moderation serve to exacerbate the very same biases that lead to such outcomes?

Content Moderation and Racism

AI, especially when used as content moderators, has become as, if not more, racist than a pre-Civil Rights era segregationist. The code that powers these systems is out of the box, and there is little indication of the industry's desire to correct these biases.

Some argue that these systems, while imperfect, can still mitigate bias. However, such mitigation is no more than a Band-Aid on an open wound. The underlying issue remains unaddressed, and the consequences can be severe, particularly for individuals from marginalized communities.

AI Moderation in News Commentary

Consider the stark contrast between AI's role in moderating commentary on the Boebert case and its behavior during another highly-publicized event. The 2002 murder of Run-DMC's Jam Master Jay, for instance, received a different tone of response from AI approval.

The comments following this news story remained tame, with reasoned and respectful discourse. In stark contrast, when a less famous, often marginalized black individual is involved in even petty criminal activities, AI approval comments grow increasingly hostile and biased.

Subliminal Racism in News Commentaries

AI does not merely reflect societal biases; it often amplifies them. When a young Black man accused of theft is involved, not only do the comments turn vicious, but the narrative is often framed in a way to question his character and that of his family.

One commentator observed, “Where are the comments about young thugs running amuck due to poor social values and absent parenting?” This question challenges the blanket, negative framing that AI sometimes imposes on certain communities.

Conclusion

As we strive to move beyond the biases of the past, it is incumbent upon us to critically examine how technology, including AI content moderation, contributes to these biases. The lines of dialogue around Black communities, especially in the light of criminal activities, should not be one of hostility but of understanding and support.

It is time to push for more transparent and inclusive AI moderation practices. The responsibility lies not just with tech companies but with all of us to ensure that AI does not become a tool for perpetuating systemic racism. Only then can we truly celebrate Black History Month with meaningful, progressive change.