Real or Fake: Investigating the Relationship between Attitudes Towards Artificial Intelligence and Reactions to Disclosed AI-generated Political Advertisements

How do pre-existing relationships with artificial intelligence affect how individuals demonstrate support for AI-generated political advertisements? The growing use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in promotional media has raised questions about how the public perceives AI-generated content and the factors that may influence its acceptance. This study examines the relationship between pre-existing relationships with GenAI and reported responses towards its use in political advertising. Drawing on existing research regarding broader economic and public concerns about AI, the study will use a cross-sectional survey to compare respondents’ personal relationships with GenAI use with their reported willingness to engage with AI-generated advertisements. Those surveyed will include students enrolled at the undergraduate level between the ages of 18 and 24. Two hypotheses guide the research: first, that disclosure of GenAI use in political advertising is associated with less favorable attitudes toward its use, and second, that lower perceived credibility and authenticity are associated with more negative reactions to its use. By examining these relationships, the study aims to contribute to a broader conversation about public opinion towards emerging technologies and the influences that may or may not promote its future acceptance in media.