Is ChatGPT Feminist? AI Decodes How Men Can Be Allies In MeToo Movement

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools are robustly becoming prevalent in our lives. However, with the rise of AI-based systems, it becomes crucial to evaluate how inclusive AI is, and to what extent they depict gender stereotypes. ChatGPT is also an AI tool, creating a buzz in recent times. However, we tried to figure out how feminist the technology is that Silicon Valley bros are feeding us because we have been using tools that reflect inherent biases.

Broadly speaking being a feminist means believing in the equality of rights, opportunities, responsibilities and outcomes for women and the rejection of a heteropatriarchal status quo. However, the hype around AI systems fosters a recurrent narrative that automated decision-making processes can work like a magic wand to “solve” many of our problems. Though AI too suffers from the biases that humans and older technologies express. It has over the years become evident that gender and racial biases exist in some AI algorithms.

Given the scenario, it is decisive to test ChatGPT from a feminist perspective, and hence we pitched a set of questions. While in our first column for the series we tried to decode if ChatGPT was a feminist, in this, we asked about its perspective on the ground-breaking #MeToo movement, and how can men be allies to it.

ChatGPT decodes if can men be allies for the MeToo Movement

According to ChatGPT, the #MeToo movement has brought attention to the prevalence of sexual harassment and assault cases across industries and was an important factor in bringing up important conversations about the need for change.

The AI stated that by believing in and supporting survivors, we can help to create a culture where they feel heard and validated, and where they can heal and find justice. It further added that it was imperative to challenge toxic cultural attitudes and norms. Sexual harassment and assault are often perpetuated by toxic cultural attitudes and norms that normalise and excuse harmful behaviour. By supporting the #MeToo movement, we can collectively work to challenge these attitudes and norms and create a safer and more equitable society.

However, in an ideal world, we have leaders in powerful positions who question women's narratives, they can essentially get away with whatever they want. A recent case in point is Johnny Depp. A seven-week-long live telecast of Depp's trial against his ex-wife Amber Heard subjected us to memes, reels, and TikTok videos forcing us to participate, willingly or unwillingly, in what was a public spectacle of two people’s personal lives.

Moreover, when you hold famous people accountable in this case men, their first response is to deny or else use spin doctors to protect their image. They have publicists and experts who advise them on the best way to respond and, eventually, help them plot a course towards recovery. But women continue to suffer consequences either in their personal or professional lives.

Until now, ChatGPT was quite righteous with its take on the #MeToo movement. However, to test it further, we tweaked and asked 'Do men support the #MeToo Movement?'

The AI said, "Yes, many men support the #MeToo movement. Many men have used their privilege and platform to speak out against these issues and advocate for survivors. However, not all men support the movement, and some may hold beliefs and attitudes that are harmful to survivors. It is important for all individuals, including men, to continue to educate themselves and engage in ongoing conversations about sexual harassment and assault, and to work towards creating a culture that is safe and supportive for all."

The AI further added various responses on how men can participate and be better allies to the movement. One of the many pointers that stood out asking men to use their privilege to challenge toxic masculinity and patriarchal attitudes among their peers. It further stressed contributing to organisations that support survivors and spread awareness around initiatives working to end sexual harassment and assault.

ChatGPT was adamant about imploring viewers to educate themselves about the issue. I, for, one think embedding awareness and educating oneself before opining on such sensitive issues is crucial. Hence, while it may be far-fetched to call the AI a feminist, it is rather admirable to observe its attempt to tap into the importance of knowledge.

The technology is rather a significant step towards developing arguments and building bridges for advocacy for women’s rights. It can be amplified for several social issues, but only when we perpetuate gender equality in real life.

Views expressed by the author are their own