A Critique of the Notion of AI Plagiarism

AI-generated imagery has sparked a wide range of reactions — some enthusiastic, others deeply skeptical or even angry. A recent response to one of my Facebook posts raised several concerns that deserve a thoughtful reply. The core issues revolve around how AI learns, whether it “steals,” its impact on artists, and what responsibilities creators and users of AI have in this rapidly evolving space. This essay aims to clarify misconceptions, present a balanced view, and encourage an open and informed dialogue.

1. How AI Learns: More Than Mere Imitation

A common critique of AI-generated art is that machines merely imitate, while humans truly “learn.” While this contrast may seem intuitive, it oversimplifies both human creativity and machine learning. In truth, both humans and AI learn by referencing and studying prior works.

Human creativity is deeply intertextual. Artists study the masters, writers read other authors, and musicians draw inspiration from those who came before. Art students in any reputable institution begin by copying the works of great artists to understand their techniques, styles, and structures. This process of learning by imitation, transformation, and recombination is at the heart of creative development.