Algorithmic Dictatorship in the Era of AI
Rituraj Bhowal, Kajal Kundalia · 2025
Technological innovation and development in the discipline of Artificial Intelligence (AI) have seemed to pour cognition into inanimate machines. This coded ‘cognition’ has enabled machines to perform intelligent tasks which had been only a human cup of tea. Initially, though, AI was deployed to perform mediocre tasks, such as solving algebraic problems and playing games. Indeed, this fascinated humans. However, such fascination has turned into fear as AI was assigned to perform complex cognitive tasks. One such being performed is AI-powered algorithms or recommender systems as deployed in various online intermediary platforms. These AI algorithms or recommender systems are assigned with crucial responsibilities such as online content moderation and recommending search results. These tasks, though they might sound uncomplicated, are likely to affect the basic rights of humans, especially the freedom of speech and expression. This is because algorithms cannot have the same understanding of human values that humans do. That consideration apart, the deepfake is another darker aspect of AI which has the capability to mold, shape and manipulate public opinion, curbing that freedom to hold opinions which is a sine qua non for freedom of expression. In this chapter, the researchers analyze the legal implications and disruptions of AI algorithms in the context of freedom of speech and expression. An attempt will also be made to examine the coherence of the existing Indian legal framework to ensure algorithmic transparency. The researchers will also throw light upon the legislative measures being brought in by the likes of the U.S., E.U. and China to deal with this AI dilemma.