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GIJN Academy, Masterclass video with Karen Hao on deconstructing AI narratives

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Karen Hao on AI Narratives Reporters Should Deconstruct

In this masterclass video, investigative journalist Karen Hao, author of the bestselling book “Empire of AI,” shares practical guidance for reporters covering artificial intelligence. She explains why journalists should question the dominant narratives promoted by tech companies, such as claims that artificial intelligence is inevitable, neutral, or purely immaterial. Hao encourages reporters to investigate the power structures behind AI systems by using power as a lens. She highlights overlooked angles for investigations, including data extraction, hidden labor, and the environmental footprint of AI infrastructure. The session offers a practical mindset to help journalists cut through industry hype and identify stories that hold AI companies accountable.

Interview: Sarah Ulrich

Video Editing: Quentin Egloff

Music: Lionel Marçal

Filming: Ron Lopez, Reynald Ramirez, Hashim Hakeem

Supervision and Coordination: Sandrine Rigaud

Special Thanks: Glenn Chong

With the support of The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung

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