Roger J. Kreuz, University of Memphis

How will the internet evolve in the coming decades?

Fiction writers have explored some possibilities.

In his 2019 novel “Fall,” science fiction author Neal Stephenson imagined a near future in which the internet still exists. But it has become so polluted with misinformation, disinformation and advertising that it is largely unusable.

Characters in Stephenson’s novel deal with this problem by subscribing to “edit streams” – human-selected news and information that can be considered trustworthy.

The drawback is that only the wealthy can afford such bespoke services, leaving most of humanity to consume low-quality, noncurated online content.

To some extent, this has already happened: Many news organizations, such as The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal, have placed their curated content behind paywalls. Meanwhile, misinformation festers on social media platforms like X and TikTok.

Stephenson’s record as a prognosticator has been impressive – he anticipated the metaverse in his 1992 novel “Snow Crash,” and a key plot element of his “Diamond Age,” released in 1995, is an interactive primer that functions much like a chatbot.

Advertisement

On the surface, chatbots seem to provide a solution to the misinformation epidemic. By dispensing factual content, chatbots could supply alternative sources of high-quality information that aren’t cordoned off by paywalls.

Ironically, however, the output of these chatbots may represent the greatest danger to the future of the web – one that was hinted at decades earlier by Argentine writer Jorge Luis Borges.

The rise of the chatbots

Today, a significant fraction of the internet still consists of factual and ostensibly truthful content, such as articles and books that have been peer-reviewed, fact-checked or vetted in some way.

The developers of large language models, or LLMs – the engines that power bots like ChatGPT, Copilot and Gemini – have taken advantage of this resource.

To perform their magic, however, these models must ingest immense quantities of high-quality text for training purposes. A vast amount of verbiage has already been scraped from online sources and fed to the fledgling LLMs.

The problem is that the web, enormous as it is, is a finite resource. High-quality text that hasn’t already been strip-mined is becoming scarce, leading to what The New York Times called an “emerging crisis in content.”

This has forced companies like OpenAI to enter into agreements with publishers to obtain even more raw material for their ravenous bots. But according to one prediction, a shortage of additional high-quality training data may strike as early as 2026.

Advertisement

As the output of chatbots ends up online, these second-generation texts – complete with made-up information called “hallucinations,” as well as outright errors, such as suggestions to put glue on your pizza – will further pollute the web.

And if a chatbot hangs out with the wrong sort of people online, it can pick up their repellent views. Microsoft discovered this the hard way in 2016, when it had to pull the plug on Tay, a bot that started repeating racist and sexist content.

Over time, all of these issues could make online content even less trustworthy and less useful than it is today. In addition, LLMs that are fed a diet of low-calorie content may produce even more problematic output that also ends up on the web.

An infinite − and useless − library

It’s not hard to imagine a feedback loop that results in a continuous process of degradation as the bots feed on their own imperfect output.

A July 2024 paper published in Nature explored the consequences of training AI models on recursively generated data. It showed that “irreversible defects” can lead to “model collapse” for systems trained in this way – much like an image’s copy and a copy of that copy, and a copy of that copy, will lose fidelity to the original image.

How bad might this get?

Consider Borges’ 1941 short story “The Library of Babel.” Fifty years before computer scientist Tim Berners-Lee created the architecture for the web, Borges had already imagined an analog equivalent.

Advertisement

In his 3,000-word story, the writer imagines a world consisting of an enormous and possibly infinite number of hexagonal rooms. The bookshelves in each room hold uniform volumes that must, its inhabitants intuit, contain every possible permutation of letters in their alphabet.

Initially, this realization sparks joy: By definition, there must exist books that detail the future of humanity and the meaning of life.

The inhabitants search for such books, only to discover that the vast majority contain nothing but meaningless combinations of letters. The truth is out there –but so is every conceivable falsehood. And all of it is embedded in an inconceivably vast amount of gibberish.

Even after centuries of searching, only a few meaningful fragments are found. And even then, there is no way to determine whether these coherent texts are truths or lies. Hope turns into despair.

Will the web become so polluted that only the wealthy can afford accurate and reliable information? Or will an infinite number of chatbots produce so much tainted verbiage that finding accurate information online becomes like searching for a needle in a haystack?

The internet is often described as one of humanity’s great achievements. But like any other resource, it’s important to give serious thought to how it is maintained and managed – lest we end up confronting the dystopian vision imagined by Borges.

Roger J. Kreuz, Associate Dean and Professor of Psychology, University of Memphis

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

Advertisement

Looking for an entertainment experience that transcends the ordinary? Look no further than STM Daily News Blog’s vibrant Entertainment section. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of indie films, streaming and podcasts, movie reviews, music, expos, venues, and theme and amusement parks. Discover hidden cinematic gems, binge-worthy series and addictive podcasts, gain insights into the latest releases with our movie reviews, explore the latest trends in music, dive into the vibrant atmosphere of expos, and embark on thrilling adventures in breathtaking venues and theme parks. Join us at STM Entertainment and let your entertainment journey begin! https://stmdailynews.com/category/entertainment/

and let your entertainment journey begin!

The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 is just around the corner, returning to Las Vegas from January 7-10, and it’s shaping up to be an unforgettable event. As the world’s most powerful tech event, CES brings together global companies, innovative startups, industry executives, media, and government leaders to showcase the latest advancements in technology.

A Glimpse into CES 2025

With over 4,500 exhibitors, including approximately 1,400 startups and more than 1,100 speakers participating in over 300 conference sessions, CES 2025 promises a wealth of knowledge, networking opportunities, and groundbreaking innovations. According to Gary Shapiro, CEO of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), “We’re ready to DIVE IN to CES 2025,” emphasizing the momentum heading into the show with a record 3,400+ Innovation Award submissions.

Key Features to Explore

Here are some of the must-see highlights at CES 2025:

1. Artificial Intelligence: AI will dominate the CES landscape, with generative AI at the forefront of innovation. Expect to see how AI enhances user experiences, increases productivity, and advances healthcare. Key exhibitors include LG, Samsung, and Siemens.
2. Digital Health: From increasing longevity to improving health equity, the digital health sector will showcase technologies aimed at empowering patients. Major participants include AARP, Resmed, and Withings.
3. Energy Transition: Dive into discussions and innovations addressing the energy transition, with a conference track focused on shaping a sustainable future. Leading exhibitors include Eaton and SK.
4. Mobility Innovations: Explore the future of mobility, encompassing everything from passenger cars to marine tech. Key players like BMW and Waymo will highlight advancements aimed at creating a more connected world.
5. Quantum Technologies: Discover how quantum mechanics is paving the way for improved security and innovation in technology. This year’s CES will feature a dedicated program in partnership with Quantum World Congress.
6. Sustainability: Witness technologies that target emissions reduction and energy efficiency. Exhibitors such as D-Carbonize and Jackery will present their sustainable innovations.

Must-See Keynotes and Conference Tracks

CES 2025 features an impressive lineup of keynote speakers, including:

• NVIDIA’s Jensen Huang: Kicking off the event on January 6 at Mandalay Bay.
• Panasonic’s Yuki Kusumi and CTA’s Gary Shapiro on January 7 at The Venetian.
• Delta Air Lines’ Ed Bastian: This keynote will be held at the incredible Sphere venue, combined with an immersive exhibit featuring Lenny Kravitz.

In addition, engaging conference tracks will cover topics like accessibility, energy transition, digital health, and the creator economy, with sessions led by industry experts and innovators.

Experience the Show Floor

CES 2025 will feature dedicated areas for varied sectors:

• LVCC Central Hall: Explore the best in home tech and immersive entertainment.
• North Hall: Focused on smart communities and IoT.
• South Hall: Highlighting accessories and products aimed at improving everyday life.
• West Hall: A showcase of the mobility ecosystem.
• C Space®/ARIA: Where brands and content creators can meet to discuss the latest trends.
• The Venetian: The hub for digital health and smart living solutions, as well as the Innovation Awards Showcase in Eureka Park.

Engage with Innovative Startups

Eureka Park at The Venetian will feature nearly 1,400 startups from around the globe, showcasing groundbreaking advancements that could shape the future of technology. This is a must-visit area for anyone interested in entrepreneurship and innovation!

Media and Networking Opportunities

Media Days, taking place on January 5-6, will allow journalists to hear breaking news and product previews from top brands. Events like CES Unveiled and CES Tech Trends will provide invaluable insights into the tech landscape for the upcoming year.

Conclusion

If you’re passionate about technology, innovation, and the future, CES 2025 is not to be missed! With a diverse array of exhibitors, engaging keynotes, and trendsetting conference sessions, this year’s event promises to be a transformative experience. Join the tech community in Las Vegas for what’s sure to be an inspiring deep dive into the future of technology. Don’t forget to download the CES app for planning and navigation, ensuring you make the most of this powerful event!

For the latest news and information, visit CES.tech. Register for CES 2025 here.

About CES^®:  
CES is the most powerful tech event in the world – the proving ground for breakthrough technologies and global innovators. This is where the world’s biggest brands do business and meet new partners, and the sharpest innovators hit the stage. Owned and produced by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®, CES features every aspect of the tech sector. CES 2025 takes place Jan. 7-10, 2025, in Las Vegas. Learn more at CES.tech and follow CES on social.

About Consumer Technology Association (CTA)^®:  
 As North America’s largest technology trade association, CTA is the tech sector. Our members are the world’s leading innovators – from startups to global brands – helping support more than 18 million American jobs. CTA owns and produces CES® – the most powerful tech event in the world. Find us at CTA.tech. Follow us @CTAtech.

Advertisement

STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.

https://stmdailynews.com/

Hello pickleball aficionados! If you’re ready to elevate your game both on and off the court, then you won’t want to miss the latest episode of People of Pickleball, where our charismatic host, Mike Sleeve’s Sliwa, sits down with the remarkable Josh Miller, a true powerhouse in the world of sports.

Meet Josh Miller: From NFL Stardom to Innovations in Pickleball

For those unfamiliar, Josh Miller is not just your average athlete. A Super Bowl Champion and Grey Cup Champion, he carved his name in the annals of football history and is now revolutionizing the pickleball scene as a Partner and Founder of HVY Sleeves. With extensive experience in coaching, sales, event management, and media relations, he blends insight and inspiration seamlessly. Plus, as a motivational speaker, Josh’s energy will leave you pumped up and ready to hit the court!

Episode Highlights: Innovation at Its Finest

In this riveting conversation, Mike and Josh dive deep into the exciting journey behind HVY Sleeves, a groundbreaking training tool that’s changing the game for pickleball players everywhere.

Key Takeaways:

1. Training with Purpose: Josh discusses how HVY Sleeves were developed to give players an added edge; perfect for enhancing arm strength and hand quickness, crucial for those lightning-fast kitchen volleys!
2. Agility and Performance: The episode explores the versatility of HVY Sleeves, emphasizing how incorporating leg sleeves into your training routine can build the agility necessary to outmaneuver your opponents, allowing for quicker reflexes and better court coverage.
3. A New Standard for Workouts: But wait, there’s more! Josh shares how these sleeves can transition seamlessly into your gym workouts, adding extra resistance for enhanced endurance training without sacrificing mobility. Because let’s face it, who wouldn’t want a versatile piece of gear that elevates your entire fitness routine?
4. Mindset Matters: With Josh as a keynote and motivational speaker, expect to hear some uplifting messages that inspire not just athletes, but anyone looking to push past their limits and achieve their goals.

Why You Should Tune In

This episode comes packed with actionable insights and motivational anecdotes that cater to players at all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned player trying to up your game or a newcomer eager to learn, you’ll find valuable nuggets of wisdom in this engaging dialogue. Mike and Josh aim to equip you with the tools and mindset needed to succeed both on the pickleball court and in your everyday life.

So, whether you’re gearing up for a competitive match or simply hitting the courts for some casual play, this episode of People of Pickleball is your go-to resource for making those game-changing improvements.

Don’t miss out on this episode featuring the remarkable Josh Miller. Tune in, lace up your HVY Sleeves, and prepare to take your pickleball skills to the NEXT LEVEL!

Happy playing, and remember: practice how you play! 🎾💪

#Pickleball #HVYSleeves #JoshMiller #PickleballTraining #PeopleOfPickleball #Fitness #Sports

Advertisement

HVY Sleeves http://hvysleeves.com

IG:@hvysleeves_

Get the latest updates and information on the rapidly growing sport of pickleball, specifically designed for the senior community aged 50+. Check out Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report on YouTube to stay informed and up-to-date with the ever-changing world of pickleball. Join the community and stay ahead of the game. https://sleeves-spr.com/

🟠 Follow us on social media:

SPR on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?…

SPR on WEB https://sleeves-spr.com SPR on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seniorpickl…

SPR on TikTok twitter: https://twitter.com/SeniorPBReport

Advertisement

#PeopleOfPickleball #Pickleball

Hey, “People of Pickleball” fans! Looking for some great deals on the latest pickleball gear and services? We’ve got you covered! Just head over to this link https://stm-store.online/spr-episode-links/ for exclusive discounts crafted just for our listeners.

Don’t miss out on elevating your game with top-notch pickleball essentials at amazing prices! https://stm-store.online/spr-episode-links/