Art Beyond Death: Uses of Image and Voice in Generative Artificial Intelligence

Abstract

The use of generative AI (GAI) has sparked a significant amount of ethical controversy. In this work, we aim to address the ethical complications that arise when GAI is used to generate images, videos, or audio based on deceased individuals. Our reflections will focus on artistic and cultural products that include such developments, where both ethical and aesthetic issues can be raised. We understand that beyond the authorization that heirs may provide for the use of digital recordings in generating GAI products, these cultural products and works of art raise a series of ethical questions stemming from the quality of the generated image and audio, the ubiquity and accessibility of these technologies, and the epistemic reliability of AIs. We will analyze a series of guiding ethical principles that would allow for the creation of such artworks and other cultural products while achieving a balance between the conflicting rights. Finally, we will review a number of objections and controversies that remain unresolved.