In 1885, the argument could be made that the invention of the camera is taking jobs away from painters. Cameras are able to capture a scene or image much more quickly and accurately than a painter ever could, and at a fraction of the cost. This means that people who would have hired a painter in the past to capture a special moment or scene are now turning to photographers to do the job instead. Additionally, the widespread availability of cameras means that anyone can take a picture, further diminishing the need for professional painters. As a result, it can be argued that the camera is having a negative impact on the livelihoods of painters, as it is making it increasingly difficult for them to find work. Instead it created a whole new kind of art.
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, the introduction of digital movie cameras caused a debate among Hollywood directors and other industry professionals. While some directors and industry professionals saw digital cameras as a cheaper and more versatile alternative to traditional film cameras, others argued that they lacked the aesthetic qualities of film and would lead to a decline in the art of filmmaking. Instead it lead to an explosion in film and video creation.
Today any illustrator can get inspired by, imitate or downright copy another artist, much like what AI is doing. Whatever happens with the lawsuit in the US, it will be hard to put the cat back in the box, so to speak. For better or for worse, AI technology is here to stay. The first years of revolutionary tech is "lawless" until legislation catches up. It will certainly be interesting to see what happens with regards to legislation etc.
What is your opinion?