Where Lies the Future of Journalism: ‘AI’, a Threat or a Treat? -By Ahmad Affan

The advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has light an intense debate about its impact on various industries, including journalism. As AI-powered tools and algorithms continue to advance, one can’t help but wonder if machines will eventually replace human journalists. However, this narrative overlooks the unique strengths that human journalists bring to the table compared to how far an AI can go.

As a graduate of Mass Communication, we have had years of rigorous trainings and grooming to become the watchdogs of the society by researching, analyzing, investigating and reporting the happenings around us to help keep people informed.

Journalism is considered to be a profession that requires careful consideration of a journalists choice of word, research and report. However the new era of social media has provided a gateway for many quacks to write and report whatever they chose to on social media, even though a professional journalist can be differentiated from a quack in the past, now any “Jack and Jill” can now produce an outstanding article beyond the expectations of a professional.

Legendary journalist Hunter S. Thompson, known for his groundbreaking work in Gonzo journalism, faced numerous challenges while writing his iconic article “The Kentucky Derby is Decadent and Depraved.”

Thompson’s assignment was to cover the 1970 Kentucky Derby, but his unconventional approach and self-imposed pressure to deliver a masterpiece led to a series of rejections and rewrites.

As Thompson himself recalled, “I had to rewrite the whole thing at least 10 times… I was on deadline, and I just couldn’t get it right.” Despite his frustration, Thompson persisted, pouring his heart and soul into the piece.

After multiple drafts and rejections, Thompson’s editor, George Plimpton, encouraged him to take a different approach. Thompson then wrote the article in one feverish night, using a unique blend of reporting, commentary, and personal narrative.

The resulting article, was then published in Scanlan’s Monthly in 1970, revolutionized journalism with its innovative style and unflinching honesty. Thompson’s perseverance and willingness to take risks led to a masterpiece that has inspired generations of journalists till date but the AI tool is about to change the narrative by creating quack and lazy journalists.

While AI excels in data analysis and processing, it falls short in several areas critical to journalism:

1. Contextual understanding: AI struggles to grasp the nuances of a story, often misinterpreting or oversimplifying complex issues.

2. Emotional intelligence: AI systems lack empathy, making it challenging to connect with sources, understand their perspectives, and convey emotions effectively.

3. Investigative skills: AI relies on data, but human journalists can conduct in-depth interviews, gather information, and uncover hidden truths.

4. Creativity and storytelling: AI-generated content often lacks the narrative flair and engaging tone that human journalists bring to a story.

Human journalists possess unique strengths that AI systems currently cannot match:

1. Human judgment and critical thinking: Journalists can analyze complex information, identify patterns, and make informed decisions.

2. Emotional intelligence and empathy: Journalists can connect with sources, understand their perspectives, and convey emotions in a way AI systems cannot.

3. Investigative skills: Journalists can conduct in-depth interviews, gather information, and uncover hidden truths.

4. Creativity and storytelling: Journalists can craft compelling narratives, using language and tone to engage audiences.

A call to all practicing journalists and future journalists, as the journalism landscape continues to evolve, one thing remains certain: the integrity and credibility of our work are the pillars that will forever define us. Though the rise of AI may pose some challenges, it is important that journalists and aspiring professionals adhere to the highest ethical standards, avoiding shortcuts that compromise our values. By doing so, we not only ensure the long-term viability of our profession but also create a body of work that we can proudly call our own. Hunter S. Thompson’s remarkable journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, determination, and creativity in overcoming adversity. As we navigate the uncertain territories of the future, let us draw inspiration from his legacy and remain steadfast in our pursuit of truth, excellence, and journalistic integrity.

Ahmad Affan, Mass Communication graduate of Bayero University, Kano.