AI-Mediated Communication Can Steer Collective Opinion
A recent study explores how generative artificial intelligence (AI) influences collective opinion formation through human-to-human communication. The research demonstrates that large language models can introduce biases in edited texts on contentious topics, potentially shifting public opinion. The findings raise concerns about the controllability of these biases by online platforms and their implications for legislative efforts in the European Union.
- ▪Generative AI is increasingly used on online platforms to mediate opinion exchanges.
- ▪The study shows that AI can introduce directional biases in human-written texts on contested topics.
- ▪Biases introduced by AI can be amplified through social networks, affecting collective opinion.
- ▪The research audits the 'Explain this post' feature on X and finds pro-life bias in AI outputs on abortion content.
- ▪The findings highlight the need for scrutiny of AI's role in shaping public discourse.
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Computer Science > Computers and Society arXiv:2605.16245 (cs) [Submitted on 15 May 2026] Title:AI-Mediated Communication Can Steer Collective Opinion Authors:Stratis Tsirtsis, Kai Rawal, Chris Russell, Brent Mittelstadt, Sandra Wachter View a PDF of the paper titled AI-Mediated Communication Can Steer Collective Opinion, by Stratis Tsirtsis and 4 other authors View PDF HTML (experimental) Abstract:Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly integrated into the online platforms where humans exchange opinions; large language models (LLMs) now polish users' posts on LinkedIn and provide context for content shared on X.
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