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Corrupted by Algorithms? How AI-generated and Human-written Advice Shape (Dis)honesty

Author

Listed:
  • Margarita Leib
  • Nils Köbis
  • Rainer Michael Rilke
  • Marloes Hagens
  • Bernd Irlenbusch

Abstract

Artificial intelligence increasingly becomes an indispensable advisor. New ethical concerns arise if artificial intelligence persuades people to behave dishonestly. In an experiment, we study how artificial intelligence advice (generated by a natural language processing algorithm) affects (dis)honesty, compare it to equivalent human advice and test whether transparency about the advice source matters. We find that dishonesty-promoting advice increases dishonesty, whereas honesty-promoting advice does not increase honesty. This is the case for both artificial intelligence and human advice. Algorithmic transparency, a commonly proposed policy to mitigate artificial intelligence risks, does not affect behaviour. The findings mark the first steps towards managing artificial intelligence advice responsibly.

Suggested Citation

  • Margarita Leib & Nils Köbis & Rainer Michael Rilke & Marloes Hagens & Bernd Irlenbusch, 2024. "Corrupted by Algorithms? How AI-generated and Human-written Advice Shape (Dis)honesty," The Economic Journal, Royal Economic Society, vol. 134(658), pages 766-784.
    • Handle: RePEc:oup:econjl:v:134:y:2024:i:658:p:766-784.
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    File URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1093/ej/uead056
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