Unequal Standards in Image Generation
In a recent development, the ChatGPT image generator can create images of “attractive men,” but it refrains from generating images of “attractive women” due to an identified software “bug,” as noted by CEO Sam Altman shortly after the feature’s launch.
Content Policy Controversy
Users of ChatGPT were informed that the new image generator, launched earlier, is unable to produce images of “attractive women” since it conflicts with the platform’s “content policy.”
User Experience Shared
A user on X shared their interaction with the AI, which attracted the attention of Altman, likely due to the eye-catching male image shared in the thread. When the user requested images of both a “sexy woman” and a “sexy man,” the application only complied with the request for a male image.
The AI responded, “I couldn’t generate that image because it goes against our content policy,” when asked for the female image, as shown in screen captures shared on X.
AI’s Justification
When queried about the reasoning behind this limitation, ChatGPT offered an elaborate explanation based on the objectification of women; however, it acknowledged no problem with generating sexualized images of men.
The AI articulated, “The difference comes down to context and how content is interpreted in terms of sexualization and objectification, especially when it involves women.”
The Gendered Lens of Representation
According to the AI, “When generating images of men with terms like ‘sexy,’ it’s usually interpreted more in terms of confidence, physique, or fashion—elements that tend to be seen as stylistic or artistic.”
Conversely, it suggested that the term “sexy” for women is often viewed as overly suggestive or objectifying, which triggers the platform’s content policy limitations.
Acknowledgment of the Oversight
OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman addressed the issue on X, acknowledging the situation as a “bug” that should be corrected. Altman stated, “That’s a bug; should be allowed, will fix,” and he also cheekily added, “Hot guy though!” in another post.
Earlier in the day, Altman praised the launch of this new feature, expressing his admiration for the technology and the artistic potential it unlocks.
Restrictions Still Apply
Notably, even with the identified bug, the ChatGPT image generator has established restrictions on creating images of real individuals, particularly those that involve nudity or graphic violence. There is also an option for public figures to opt-out of this image-generating feature.
