A Letter to the Editor from Margaret Wilson, of Primrose Valley, comparing the latest offering from the world of Artifical Intelligence (AI) with the insightful work of real citizen journalists investigating the personalities and events of local politics, in the public interest. ChatGPT and the like has yet to grasp the right end of the stick when it comes to accurate reporting. Makes you smile, though . . .
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Dear Editor
Having followed your varied, and in many cases fascinating, in-depth investigations seldom covered in today’s world, I feel I should share a refreshing glimpse between the clouds that seem perpetually to hover above us in these modern times.
I have enjoyed a wonderful visit over the Bank Holiday from my granddaughter and her new beau.
Along with all the wonderful stories from her university days in London, she told me all about how technology was going to make our lives so much simpler and certain previously valuable crafts obsolete, one of which was journalism. I was intrigued with her explanation of an electronic journalist, powered by Artificial Intelligence.
That set me wondering and before she left I asked her how reliable this new technology could be to rely on it for such important matters as relaying current events for the masses.
Indistinguishable, she explained. Hmmm.
I asked her to use it to write a story using only 2 phrases: “North Yorks Enquirer” and “Councillor Steve Siddons”.
The resulting article, I leave to the reader, to discern whether journalism needs a living pulse, rather than being replaced by a microchip.
Readers will draw their own conclusions. I know who I trust.
Yours Sincerely,
Margaret Wilson
AI Article
Once upon a time in the picturesque town of Scarborough in North Yorkshire, there was a dedicated and passionate local politician named Steve Siddons. He had served as a councillor for many years and was known for his unwavering commitment to the well-being of the community.
Steve Siddons was a man of principles and integrity, always striving to make a positive impact on the lives of his constituents. He was known for his progressive stance on environmental issues, advocating for sustainable practices and the preservation of the town’s natural beauty.
One day, as Steve Siddons was going about his usual duties as a councillor, he received an urgent call from a reporter at the North Yorkshire Enquirer, a local news outlet known for its investigative journalism. The reporter informed him of a concerning development – a proposed development project that could potentially harm the town’s environment and heritage.
Steve Siddons was deeply alarmed and immediately sprung into action. He organized town hall meetings, rallied local residents, and led a campaign to raise awareness about the potential negative impacts of the project. He passionately argued that the development would compromise the town’s unique charm and natural beauty, and he tirelessly worked to gather evidence and build a strong case against it.
Despite facing opposition from vested interests, Steve Siddons remained undeterred. He continued to work closely with the North Yorkshire Enquirer, providing them with information and updates on the campaign. The news outlet, impressed by his unwavering dedication and commitment to transparency, covered the issue extensively, shedding light on the potential negative consequences of the proposed development.
With Steve Siddons’ leadership and the support of the North Yorks Enquirer, the campaign gained momentum. Local residents rallied behind him, and his message resonated with the wider community. He was praised for his tireless efforts to protect the town’s environment and heritage, and his popularity grew.
As the campaign gained traction, the local authorities took notice. Steve Siddons was invited to present his case to the council, and he eloquently articulated the concerns of the community. His persuasive arguments and evidence-based approach won over the council, and the proposed development project was ultimately rejected.
The victory was celebrated by the community, and Steve Siddons was hailed as a hero. He continued to work tirelessly as a councillor, advocating for sustainable practices and the preservation of the town’s unique character. The North Yorkshire Enquirer continued to cover his efforts, praising his dedication to the well-being of the community.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Steve Siddons was awarded the “Environmental Champion” title by the North Yorks Enquirer. He was also re-elected as a councillor with overwhelming support from the community, and he continued to serve with unwavering dedication, making a positive impact on the lives of the people he represented.
In the end, Steve Siddons’ commitment to his principles, his collaboration with the North Yorks Enquirer, and his tireless efforts to protect the town’s environment and heritage paid off. He left a lasting legacy as a true champion for the community and an inspiration to others who shared his passion for the well-being of the people and the preservation of the environment.
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