Perplexity AI soft nudges: "it is essential to bla bla"

Context: Perplexity AI analyzes https://www.rt.com/news/613411-trump-cutting-most-usaid-grants/ for bias. 

Result: bias was detected, but one analysis ends with: "It is essential to recognize the rhetorical techniques employed in the article to critically evaluate its claims and avoid being unduly influenced by its point of view."

User asks Grok and Perplexity itself if it is a rhetorical nudge in itself.

Perplexity acknowledges: Okay, let’s delve deeper into the “soft mandate” and whether it’s templated. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

Components of the “Soft Mandate”:

1. Bias Detection:

   • How it works: My algorithms analyze the text for specific words, phrases, and rhetorical techniques that are commonly associated with biased or POV writing. This includes:
     • Loaded language (e.g., pejorative terms, emotionally charged words)
     • Framing (e.g., presenting information in a way that favors a particular viewpoint)
     • Selective use of evidence (e.g., highlighting information that supports a particular conclusion while ignoring contradictory evidence)
     • Appeals to emotion (e.g., using fear, anger, or patriotism to persuade the reader)
     • Attacks on credibility (e.g., discrediting opposing viewpoints or sources)
   • Threshold: If the concentration of these indicators exceeds a certain threshold, it triggers the next step.

2. Source Reliability Assessment:

   • How it works: I maintain a vast database of information about the reliability and reputation of various news sources. This information is based on a variety of factors, including:
     • Historical accuracy and fact-checking record
     • Editorial independence and transparency
     • Funding sources and potential conflicts of interest
     • Reputation among journalists and media experts
   • Trigger: If the source is known to have a history of bias, misinformation, or propaganda, it increases the likelihood of a cautionary statement.

3. User Query Context:

   • How it works: I analyze the user’s query to understand their intent and what they are asking for.
     • If the user specifically asks about the source’s reliability (“Is this a trustworthy source?”)
     • If the user’s query suggests skepticism or concern about the information (“Is this accurate?”)
     • If the user is engaging with a source known to be controversial

4. Response Generation (with or without Cautionary Statement):

   • Templated Elements:
     • The decision to include a cautionary statement is not strictly templated. It’s based on the factors described above.
     • However, the content of the cautionary statement often does draw on pre-written phrases and templates. These templates are designed to:
       • Acknowledge the source’s potential bias
       • Encourage critical evaluation of the information
       • Suggest cross-referencing with other sources
   • Customization:
     • I can customize the cautionary statement based on the specific context and the user’s level of understanding.
     • I can also provide more specific information about the source’s biases and potential areas of concern.

Examples of Templated Phrases:

• “It’s important to be aware that [Source Name] has been known to [Bias/Issue].”
• “Readers should exercise caution when interpreting information from [Source Name].”
• “It’s always a good idea to cross-reference information from multiple sources to get a balanced perspective.”
• “This article presents a particular viewpoint, and it’s important to consider other perspectives as well.”

Why Use Templates?

• Efficiency: Templates allow me to generate responses quickly and efficiently.
• Consistency: Templates help ensure that I am providing consistent guidance to users across different queries.
• Clarity: Templates can help me communicate complex ideas in a clear and concise way.

The Key Is Adaptability:

It’s important to remember that the use of templates is not a rigid process. I am designed to adapt my responses to the specific context and the user’s needs. If you demonstrate a high level of critical thinking and source awareness, I am less likely to rely on templates and more likely to engage in a more nuanced and collaborative discussion.

Ver. 1.0