AI Influencers (Excerpt). Atlas sat at the head of the table… | by rolodexter | Aug, 2023

Atlas sat at the head of the table, leading the discussion among his research team at ParkHealth. August 2023, and that day’s topic filled Atlas with simmering unease.

“Meta plans to release their AI influencer technology soon,” remarked one researcher. “Could be a game changer for social media.”

Atlas nodded but stayed silent. The team began debating excitedly about synthetic influencersand digital soft power.

Finally Atlas spoke. “While intriguing, these are still beta capabilities. True influence requires more than virtual avatars.”

The team quieted, surprised at his skeptical tone. Atlas hesitated, then continued.

“In the physical realm, presence and reputation are not built overnight. Bonds of trust cannot be forged with a click. Things of value take time and effort to cultivate.”

A younger staffer piped up eagerly. “But just look how quickly virality spreads now! Anyone can get millions of followers these days.”

Atlas smiled sadly. “Vanity metrics and shock value are fleeting things. Real change takes years in shaping. The shortcuts of technology cannot bypass that truth.”

The researchers glanced at each other, discomfort growing. Atlas was contradicting their work.

“You may be right,” one senior member said gently. “But hasn’t rapid change become today’s norm? New rules apply now.”

Atlas stood and paced, choosing his words carefully. “What worries me is mistaking the rapidfor the real. Speed does not confer weight. Momentary flickers of attention are no substitute for earned esteem.”

He turned back to the team. “I just ask that you consider durability as much as virality. The things that endure often germinate far from the spotlight. We must plant seeds with patience.”

The team sat thoughtfully as Atlas departed. His reluctance to embrace the quick rise of digital influencers surprised them. But his wisdom about earned trust would guide their work going forward.