GPT-4o: I agree with the artists because these practices reflect broader issues in the AI industry, such as under-compensation for creative contributors and the opacity of corporate processes.

Question for ChatGPT-4o: Please read the article “Artists Stick It to ‘AI Overlords’ and Leak OpenAI’s Sora Video Generator” and tell me whether you agree with the artists, and if so why, and what OpenAI should do to address these issues, if you feel that is indeed required.

ChatGPT-4o’s answer:
The artists’ concerns regarding OpenAI’s handling of the Sora Video Generator program seem valid for several reasons:

1. Unpaid Labor: The artists provided substantial feedback, bug testing, and creative experimentation, which can be considered valuable intellectual labor. For a company valued at $150 billion, expecting artists to contribute for free, with minimal prospects of meaningful compensation, raises ethical concerns about exploitation​.

2. Control and Censorship: Requiring OpenAI’s approval for any videos shared undermines artistic freedom. This suggests the program was more about controlling the narrative and shaping public perception (i.e., “art washing”) than fostering genuine collaboration​.

3. PR Focus: The initiative appears to prioritize OpenAI’s marketing and PR benefits over artists’ contributions, as highlighted by the minimal rewards provided to participants despite the significant value their input adds​.

My Agreement

I agree with the artists because these practices reflect broader issues in the AI industry, such as under-compensation for creative contributors and the opacity of corporate processes. Exploiting artists for corporate gain under the guise of collaboration is a troubling precedent.

Recommendations for OpenAI

1. Fair Compensation: OpenAI should compensate artists fairly for their contributions, treating them as collaborators rather than unpaid laborers.

2. Transparent Terms: Clearly outline the benefits and limitations of participation. Transparency would build trust and avoid accusations of exploitation.

3. Artist Autonomy: Allow artists to share their creations freely without requiring approval, fostering a genuine environment of collaboration.

4. Support for Open Source: As the artists suggest, supporting or providing open-source tools can democratize access and give artists more control over their creative processes​.

If OpenAI aims to foster goodwill and trust within creative communities, it should address these issues proactively and commit to fair, transparent, and inclusive practices.