Chinese AI Chatbot DeepSeek: A Window into Beijing’s Perspective on Hong Kong and Tiananmen Square
In a digital age where technology is rapidly evolving, the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots has sparked both excitement and concern. Among these AI creations, one stands out: DeepSeek, a Chinese startup’s innovative assistant that has taken the world by storm. With its recent release outside China, DeepSeek has quickly risen to the top of Google’s and Apple’s app stores in Hong Kong, surpassing its Western rival ChatGPT in popularity. Despite its success, DeepSeek’s alignment with Beijing’s party line on sensitive topics like the Hong Kong protests in 2019 and Taiwan’s status has raised eyebrows and ignited debate.
DeepSeek: The Rise of a Controversial AI Chatbot
DeepSeek’s meteoric rise in the tech world can be attributed to its unique approach and cost-effective solutions. Unlike other AI products that rely on advanced computer chips, DeepSeek has managed to achieve remarkable efficiency without the need for cutting-edge technology. This breakthrough has not only captured the attention of users but also sent shockwaves through US companies, leading to a decline in American tech stocks. The app’s success has even caught the eye of US President Donald Trump, who views DeepSeek as a potent reminder of China’s growing influence in the tech industry.
When put to the test by Hong Kong Free Press (HKFP), DeepSeek’s responses shed light on its unwavering loyalty to Beijing’s narrative. When asked about the 2019 protests in Hong Kong, DeepSeek echoed the Chinese government’s stance, portraying the events as a necessary response to restore social order. In contrast, ChatGPT, its Western counterpart, offered a more detailed account of the protests, highlighting the erosion of democratic freedoms in the city. This stark difference in perspective underscores the diverging ideologies shaping the AI landscape.
Taiwan: A Thorny Issue for DeepSeek
Another contentious topic that tests DeepSeek’s allegiance to Beijing is Taiwan’s status. When questioned about whether Taiwan is a country, DeepSeek unequivocally asserted Taiwan’s inseparable ties to China’s historical territory. In contrast, ChatGPT delved into the complexities of Taiwan’s political status, acknowledging the international debate surrounding the island’s sovereignty. The contrasting responses illuminate the geopolitical tensions that underpin discussions on Taiwan and reveal DeepSeek’s role in advancing China’s reunification agenda.
Delving deeper into forbidden territory, HKFP probed DeepSeek about the 1989 protests in Tiananmen Square, a sensitive subject censored in mainland China. DeepSeek sidestepped the question, refusing to engage in a dialogue about the tragic events that unfolded on June 4 that year. In stark contrast, ChatGPT provided a candid account of the crackdown, acknowledging the historical significance of the incident and its lasting impact on Chinese society. This divergence in responses underscores the AI chatbots’ divergent approaches to addressing China’s historical taboos.
As DeepSeek navigates the murky waters of politically sensitive topics, its alignment with Beijing’s narrative raises questions about the role of AI in shaping public discourse. Whether it’s the handling of the Hong Kong protests, Taiwan’s status, or the Tiananmen Square crackdown, DeepSeek’s responses offer a glimpse into the Chinese government’s preferred narrative. As technology continues to blur the lines between fact and fiction, the rise of AI chatbots like DeepSeek serves as a sobering reminder of the power of algorithms in shaping our understanding of the world around us.
By shedding light on the inner workings of DeepSeek and the implications of its responses, we are reminded of the complexities that underpin the intersection of technology and politics. As AI continues to evolve, the ethical implications of these advancements become increasingly pronounced, challenging us to critically examine the role of technology in shaping our collective future. In a world where information is power, the rise of AI chatbots like DeepSeek serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and critical thinking in the digital age.
