UPDATE: Substack CEO Chris Best warns that artificial intelligence could overwhelm the internet with “AI slop” or ignite a cultural renaissance for creators. Speaking on the latest episode of the a16z Podcast published on October 25, 2023, Best highlighted the urgent issue of media quality in an AI-driven world.
AI-generated content is flooding social media platforms, raising concerns about its impact on creativity and engagement. Best stated, “You could have a bunch of AI slop that kind of keeps dumb people clicking.” However, he believes this technology could also provide creators with significant leverage, leading to a future where independent voices thrive.
With attention becoming the true scarcity in media, Best emphasized, “We’ve entered a world where attention is the scarce resource.” He argued that while there is no shortage of content, “there’s a huge scarcity of good content.” As AI tools proliferate, many platforms are optimizing for sheer engagement, likening it to “drug addiction.”
Best’s remarks come on the heels of Substack’s recent fundraising success, having raised $100 million in July 2023, valuing the platform at approximately $1.1 billion. Substack enables writers to monetize their work directly from subscribers, positioning it as a key player in the future of media.
The rise of “AI slop” is a growing concern among industry leaders. President Donald Trump shared his apprehensions about AI-generated content during a press briefing on October 24, 2023, referring to a viral clip he believed was likely AI-manipulated. “It’s a little bit scary, to be honest with you,” Trump stated, adding that the potential for misinformation is troubling.
Startups like Faceless.video and AutoShorts.ai are capitalizing on the AI content boom, offering tools that automate video creation and posting across platforms like TikTok and YouTube. These platforms can generate up to 120 videos per month on a single account, drastically reducing the time investment needed for creators.
Best remains hopeful, asserting that the media’s purpose extends beyond mere engagement—it’s about culture. “The other purpose of media is culture,” he said. “That is something that people really, really want as well.”
As AI continues to reshape the digital landscape, the stakes are high for both creators and consumers. The ongoing developments in AI technology will determine whether the online space becomes a hub of creativity or a wasteland of low-quality content.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story, as the implications of AI in media grow increasingly significant.
