Discourse Analysis of AI-Generated Images of Power and Authority

Onur Valor, Marmara University, Turkey

This discourse analysis project explores the representation of power figures in AI-generated images. As AI technologies advance, they are increasingly used to generate visual content, including images depicting entities in positions of power and authority. This research aims to understand how AI creates such images and how they shape perceptions of power, while examining the potential biases and marginalized representations within these images. By critically analyzing the social and cultural implications of AI-generated images, this project contributes to a broader understanding of the impact of AI and informs strategies for more inclusive and equitable representation. The theoretical framework combines various perspectives, including Critical Discourse Analysis, Social Constructionism, Posthumanism, Visual Semiotics, Critical Race Theory, Gaze Theory, Discourse of Power, Knowledge Construction, Symbolic Interactionism, Semiotics, Cultural Studies, Discourse Theory, and Interpellation Theory. The research examines power dynamics, social constructions of gender and race, representation in visual communication, discourse's role in legitimizing authority, and the potential of AI. The analytical framework involves analyzing the poses, color palettes, clothing, and visual elements in AI-generated images to uncover underlying power dynamics and social meanings. Data for the analysis will be collected from the Bing AI Image generator powered by DALL-E. The findings aim to explore bias, representational patterns, symbolism, power dynamics, intersectionality, technological limitations, and potential of AI. The research highlights the importance of ethical considerations and strategies for inclusive and equitable representation in AI technologies. Overall, this study provides insights into the social and cultural implications of AI-generated images of power and authority, contributing to the ongoing discourse on the impact of AI in society.