Dead Internet Theory Gains Traction as AI Content Surges Online

As AI-generated content proliferates online, experts warn that much of the internet may now be dominated by bots impersonating humans. The so-called Dead Internet Theory, initially considered a conspiracy, has gained traction, especially with data showing that in 2024, automated systems accounted for 51% of web traffic for the first time, with AI-generated articles surpassing human-written ones. Sociologist Alex Turvy notes that while human traffic remains, the prevalence of bots is distorting the user experience by undermining traditional markers of authenticity, pushing users towards private discussion forums. A significant portion of web activity is now driven by bots, with studies indicating that 40% to 60% of interactions are artificial, impacting engagement metrics. The trend reflects a shifting landscape where financial incentives increasingly favor automated content, leading to an online environment that prioritizes quantity over quality. As these automated systems evolve, the challenge lies in distinguishing between human and machine-generated interactions, creating concerns about the future of authentic online engagement.

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