The Pygmalion Effect in AI: Influence of Cultural Narratives and Policies on Technological Development

Abstract

Advances in generative artificial intelligence (AI), such as recent developments in text, audio, and video production, have amplified societal concerns, with threat probabilities estimated between 5 and 50%. This manuscript undertakes a comprehensive study to understand the factors influencing AI development, focusing on the interplay between AI research, cinematographic representations, and regulatory policies. The study reveals a strong interaction between scientific advances and cultural representations, indicating shared concerns and themes across both domains. It also highlights broad support for ethical and responsible AI development, with temporal analyses showing the significant influence of films on public perception and slower growth in policy implementation relative to cultural diffusion. The findings discuss the presence of a Pygmalion effect, where cultural representations shape perceptions of AI, and a potential Golem effect, where increased regulation may limit the dangerous development of AI and its societal impact. The study underscores the importance of balanced and ethical AI development, requiring continued monitoring and careful management of the relationship between research, cultural representations, and regulatory frameworks.