Representation of Southeast Asian women in the AI era

Abstract

Nowadays, information seeking has evolved with the existence of AI-powered platforms. One example is ChatGPT. This provides users with a faster, convenient, and conversational synthesis of answers to queries. Considering ChatGPT’s unique features, this study explores how ChatGPT’s information portrays a specific group of people. In particular, the main interest was the representation of Southeast Asian women. Much research has investigated representations of these women in the media; however, there is limited information on how these women were portrayed in any AI platforms like ChatGPT. With this, the study utilized actual data gathered from the conversation with ChatGPT and was analyzed using qualitative inductive content analysis. The results revealed both traditional and modern femininity characterization of Southeast Asian women, how religion affects the cultural and societal system, and the struggles of women in the region. Thus, emphasizing a continued women’s empowerment towards an equal and just society.