UPDATE: Substack CEO Chris Best has issued a stark warning about the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on content creation, stating it could lead to a flood of low-quality material, referred to as “AI slop,” or ignite a cultural renaissance. In a recent episode of the a16z Podcast released on October 25, 2023, Best highlighted the dual potential of AI in shaping the future of media.
Best emphasized that while AI has the capability to inundate social media with mindless content designed for clicks, it also presents a unique opportunity for independent creators to gain significant leverage. “You could have a bunch of AI slop that kind of keeps dumb people clicking,” he stated, underlining the urgency for quality content in an oversaturated media landscape.
The Substack CEO pointed out that the real challenge in today’s media environment is not the availability of content but the scarcity of attention. He stated, “We’ve entered a world where attention is the scarce resource. We have won the war on boredom.” His comments come amid a staggering increase in AI-generated content flooding platforms, raising concerns about the quality and engagement of such material.
According to Best, much of the online content is being optimized solely for engagement, akin to creating a “drug addiction” for users. “That side of the media is going to get supercharged,” he warned, referencing the advancements in AI technology. Yet, he remains hopeful, believing that media’s true purpose—cultural enrichment—also resonates strongly with audiences.
In a significant development, Substack recently raised $100 million in funding, valuing the platform at approximately $1.1 billion. This funding round highlights the growing importance of platforms that empower writers to monetize their content directly from subscribers.
The conversation around AI in media is gaining traction at the highest levels. Recently, former President Donald Trump expressed concerns about AI-generated content, suggesting that a viral clip depicting a mysterious black bag being thrown from a window at the White House may have been artificially created. “It’s a little bit scary, to be honest with you,” Trump commented during a press conference on October 24, 2023.
As AI continues to evolve, platforms like Substack could either pave the way for a new era of creativity or contribute to a declining standard of content. The stakes are high, and the outcome remains uncertain. Best’s remarks reflect a critical juncture for the media landscape, underscoring the need for creators and consumers to prioritize quality over quantity.
What happens next will be crucial. As AI technology advances, the balance between engaging content and meaningful cultural expression will define the future of media. For creators and consumers alike, the call for quality content has never been more urgent.
