Psychological Patterns and Article 5 of the AI Act Proposal

Abstract

The article critically examines the complex interplay between AI-powered deceptive design and legislative responses, mainly focusing on the European Union's AI Act Proposal. The article also emphasises the urgency of addressing the risks posed by AI-powered deceptive design strategies intricately woven into online platforms. These ‘psychological patterns’ mislead users into making decisions contrary to their intentions, exploiting psychological vulnerabilities. The article then explores the potential for regulating these practices under Article 5(1) of the EU's AI Act Proposal. It underscores the importance of safeguarding user autonomy in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. It engages with the dynamics of psychological manipulation, the need for effective regulation under the AI Act, and the critical importance of maintaining user autonomy amidst these technological advancements.

Keywords: dark patterns, deceptive design, psychological manipulation, artificial intelligence, regulation, harm