Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- withdraw /with-DRAW/
- controversial /kon-truh-VUR-shuhl/
- unauthorized /uhn-AW-thuh-rahyzd/
- recreation /rek-ree-EY-shuhn/
- advocate /AD-vuh-kit, -keyt/
[verb] – to take or move out or back, or to remove
The company decided to withdraw its offer after further negotiations failed.
[adjective] – causing disagreement or discussion
The new law was controversial, sparking debates across the country.
[adjective] – without official permission
The unauthorized entry into the building led to security concerns.
[noun] – the process of making something exist or happen again
The artist’s recreation of the old painting was nearly identical to the original.
[noun] – a person who supports a cause
She is an advocate for children’s rights and often speaks at conferences.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
California recently introduced new legislation aimed at protecting Hollywood actors from being digitally copied by artificial intelligence (AI). Governor Gavin Newsom signed the laws, which give actors the right to withdraw from contracts if the terms regarding AI’s use of their voice or image are vague. The laws also make it illegal to create digital clones of deceased performers without approval from their estates. These measures were influenced by fears that studios could use AI to replace workers and by a controversial case involving the unauthorized recreation of comedian George Carlin for a comedy special.
The laws received strong support from groups such as SAG-AFTRA and the California Labor Federation, who emphasized the importance of protecting workers in an industry increasingly impacted by AI technology. Governor Newsom highlighted the need to safeguard the rights of performers while still allowing for growth in Hollywood. Critics, including the California Chamber of Commerce, have expressed concern that the legislation might face legal challenges, but advocates believe the laws represent a responsible approach to AI regulation. California’s measures follow Tennessee’s earlier legislation, which focused on musicians, and mark the state as a leader in establishing protections against unauthorized AI use. Additional AI-related laws, such as regulations concerning deepfake videos during elections and safety standards for AI models, are still under review, with Newsom required to take action on these proposals by September 30. These developments reflect a growing effort to balance innovation with ethical considerations in AI technology.
The laws received strong support from groups such as SAG-AFTRA and the California Labor Federation, who emphasized the importance of protecting workers in an industry increasingly impacted by AI technology. Governor Newsom highlighted the need to safeguard the rights of performers while still allowing for growth in Hollywood. Critics, including the California Chamber of Commerce, have expressed concern that the legislation might face legal challenges, but advocates believe the laws represent a responsible approach to AI regulation. California’s measures follow Tennessee’s earlier legislation, which focused on musicians, and mark the state as a leader in establishing protections against unauthorized AI use. Additional AI-related laws, such as regulations concerning deepfake videos during elections and safety standards for AI models, are still under review, with Newsom required to take action on these proposals by September 30. These developments reflect a growing effort to balance innovation with ethical considerations in AI technology.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever heard of AI being used to create digital copies of someone? If so, what did you think about it? If not, how do you feel about the idea of AI recreating a person digitally?
- Have you ever watched a movie or show where AI technology was involved in production? If so, what impact did it have on the final product? If not, do you think AI could improve or harm creative works?
- Do you agree that the new legislation will protect actors from unfair use of their image?
- How do you think AI technology could change the entertainment industry in the long term? What are some positive and negative effects you can foresee?
- Do you think it is ethical to digitally recreate deceased performers without their direct permission? Why or why not?
Summarization
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- legislation
- comedy
- impact
- protection
- innovation