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The Case for Using Generative AI to Run Deliberation Simulations

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This is an accepted article with a DOI pre-assigned that is not yet published.Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI)language models, such as ChatGPT, Bloom, and Copilot, may offer transformativepossibilities for deliberative democracy. We argue that deliberation scholarsand practitioners should use GAI models to run deliberation simulations tocomplement existing deliberative processes. By simulations, we mean the use ofGAI software to run hypothetical deliberations, either with or on behalf ofhuman participants. In this vein, simulations would support rather than replacehuman judgment. We first expand on the notion of a GAI deliberation simulationand showcase an example simulation using ChatGPT 3.5. We then consider theadvantages of simulations, address potential concerns, and illustrate a fewpotential uses. We conclude by considering the practical and theoreticalimplications of this approach.

Source: Journal of Deliberative Democracy

DOI: 10.16997/jdd.1625

Authors: John Rountree, John Gastil

Institutions: University of Houston - Downtown, Pennsylvania State University

Language: English

Topic: Political Theory and Democracy

Subfield: Political Science and International Relations

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4414092308

FWCI: 7.809

Cites: 76

Cited by: 2

Related to: 10