Dead Internet Theory Gains Traction as AI Content Surges Online

The Dead Internet Theory, once dismissed as a conspiracy, is gaining attention as AI-generated content proliferates online. Researchers note that bots now constitute over half of web traffic, and automated systems are increasingly producing synthetic articles that mimic human writing. This shift raises concerns about the way people interact with content, as users struggle to identify genuine human engagement amid bot activity. Sociologists indicate that the prevalence of automated interactions is prompting some users to retreat to more private online spaces such as Discord, where they feel more secure in their interactions. Studies show that bots are responsible for creating artificial engagement, including inflated likes and shares, creating the illusion of a vibrant online community. This automation raises difficult questions about authenticity on the internet, as technology evolves to make it easier for machines to imitate human behavior. As AI-driven content continues to rise, the integrity of online engagement may be at risk, challenging the very essence of what it means to connect in digital spaces.

Source 🔗