Jodi Picoult ‘Dismayed’ at AI Advert for ‘By Any Other Name’

Bestselling author Jodi Picoult has expressed strong disapproval upon discovering that AI-generated images were used in the promotion of her latest novel, By Any Other Name. The promotional materials, including posters and social media posts, featured AI-created visuals depicting a woman writing on a manuscript. These images displayed typical AI-generated anomalies, such as distorted hands and asymmetrical clothing. The Times

Penguin Random House, the publisher of Picoult’s novel, has issued an apology, stating that the AI-generated content was produced by an external agency without their knowledge. In a letter to Picoult’s agent, Laura Gross, the publisher expressed disappointment and assured that they are addressing the issue with the agency involved. The Times

This incident is particularly significant given Picoult’s active involvement in legal actions against AI companies. She is part of a lawsuit led by the U.S. Authors Guild against OpenAI and Microsoft, alleging unauthorized use of copyrighted materials for AI training. Picoult has been a vocal advocate for authors’ rights, emphasizing the need for consent and compensation when AI technologies utilize their works. The Times

The situation highlights the broader debate within the publishing industry regarding the integration of AI technologies. It underscores the necessity for stringent oversight and clear policies to prevent unauthorized use of AI in content creation and promotion. Penguin Random House has recently updated its copyright policies to explicitly prohibit the use of its authors’ works in AI training, a move that has been commended by the Authors Guild and other advocates. The Times

As AI continues to permeate various sectors, this incident serves as a reminder of the ethical considerations and potential conflicts that arise when technology intersects with creative industries.