Mikhail E. KOROLʹKOV Herzen State Pedagogical University
48, Moika Emb., Saint Petersburg, 191186 Russian Federation
Institute of Human Philosophy, Department of Theory and History of Culture
e-mail: korolkovmihail8@gmail.com
ORCID: 0000-0002-1427-3961
Neural Networks in Popular CultureAbstract: The article is dedicated to examining the phenomenon of neural networks as a form of learning artificial intelligence in the field of contemporary artistic practices, referred to as popular culture. The concept of popular culture is elucidated through the works of John Seabrook and John Storey as a broad art form, created by a multitude of authors for a multitude of consumers Neural networks are studied in the field of institutional processes (production, consumption, reflection of art) and as a specific form of an artifact of artistic culture. Within the institutional dimension, neural networks are considered as a tool for creating art artifacts. Here, they compete with classical tools. Neural networks differ fundamentally in their mode of interaction with the author – based on a textual prompt, they autonomously generate an artistic artifact, taking over some of the author's functions. Neural networks also surpass traditional tools in quantitative characteristics, creating artifacts faster and in greater numbers. Moreover, the use of neural networks does not require special skills to achieve satisfactory results – only language knowledge for composing a textual prompt and imagination. Between this textual prompt and the final result produced by the program, there is a distance – the neural network interprets concepts according to its algorithms, and the artist does not directly control the creation of the artifact. Consequently, neural networks alter contemporary relationships of artistic production and consumption in virtual culture. They allow a large number of ordinary users to engage in the creation of art artifacts, thereby diminishing the value of highly qualified authors. Neural networks negatively impact popular culture through the increase of medium-quality artifacts and the creation of mystifications. These negative traits are partially offset by the neural networks' abilities to visualize any narratives from any cultural spheres and to adapt information search in virtual space to the needs of a specific user. In popular culture, neural networks are utilized in cinema, visual arts, and music. They are capable of enhancing the quality of existing works, expanding them, and creating new artifacts.
Key words: popular culture, neural networks, artificial intelligence, artistic culture, author, art consumer.
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For Citation: Korolʹkov, A. (2024) Neural Networks in Popular Culture. International Journal of Cultural Research, 1 (54). 50–60. DOI: 10.52173/2079-1100_2024_1_50
DOI: 10.52173/2079-1100_2024_1_50
