Public Perceptions and Attitudes Towards the Application of Artificial Intelligence in Journalism: From a China-based Survey

Abstract

ABSTRACT In the face of the pervasive influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on journalism and media, the current research probes deeply into the public perceptions and attitudes towards the application of AI in Chinese journalism. We aim to answer several highly concerning questions by academics, the AI industry, and the journalism industry. An online survey was conducted to examine the public’s existing knowledge, emotions, concerns, preferences, and expectations of AI in Chinese journalism industry. It was found that the public was in general familiar with the application of AI technology in the field of journalism and media, among which the most acquainted aspect was describing some news products that apply the AI. The public's emotions towards the news broadcast by AI simulated anchors were mainly positive. Compared with the news content, the public believed that the form of news report benefited more from the application of AI. The public preferred the types differently in terms of a series of of media content and news production processes. Finally, most of the public believed that AI mode and traditional mode should complement each other in future news production. Practical suggestions were proposed to the AI industry, journalism, government, and the public.