TikTok’s Latest Trend: AI-Generated Absurdity Raises Laughter and Environmental Concerns
A bizarre new trend has taken TikTok by storm, utilizing a CapCut template and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to transform ordinary photos into illogical and humorous animations. The trend, which has captured the attention of millions, raises questions about the ethics of AI usage and its environmental impact.
At the heart of this trend is the CapCut editing app, which allows users to select a photo and apply AI effects, resulting in unexpected and often nonsensical outcomes. For example, a man’s dog is turned into a human wearing a dog suit, while a woman in a bathtub is suddenly surrounded by water and walks through the tub to escape a robber. These absurd scenarios have become a hallmark of the trend, with users eagerly sharing their own creations and reactions.
As one user commented, "To early to be laughin wakin the whole house up," while another quipped, "Well that’s my nightmare sorted tonight." The trend has also sparked interesting patterns, with many videos featuring someone kicking the air, a person with extra hands, and a cop or robber making a cameo appearance.
However, beneath the humor and entertainment, lies a more serious concern. The use of AI in this trend has significant environmental implications. A group of over 130 civil society organizations, including Amnesty International and Defend Democracy, has called on the AI industry to mitigate the environmental impacts of this technology. According to an investigation by MIT Technology Review, creating a 5-second AI video consumes approximately 3.4 million joules, more than 700 times the energy required to generate a high-quality image.
As the world becomes increasingly reliant on AI, it is essential to consider the long-term effects of this technology on our planet. While the TikTok trend may seem harmless, it highlights the need for greater awareness and responsibility in AI usage. As one commenter astutely noted, "You know what, it’s my own fault for having the internet."
The intersection of Artificial Intelligence and social media has opened up new avenues for creativity and entertainment. Nevertheless, it is crucial to acknowledge the potential consequences of our actions and strive for a more sustainable future. As we continue to explore the possibilities of AI, we must also prioritize environmental responsibility and ensure that our technological advancements do not come at the expense of the planet.
