The majority of descriptive computer vision applications range from taxonomic categorization and OCR to rich textual captioning and Q&A. Yet, in many fields like international diplomacy, brand monitoring and conflict risk assessment, the far more important question is not what the image depicts, but rather what emotional response it is most likely to generate in a given group of people. A map of Ukraine showing its occupation by Russian forces, for example, would likely yield a strongly negative reaction in a Ukrainian and a positive reaction in a pro-government Russian citizen who supports the war. Similarly, an image depicting the misuse of the Turkish flag and an improperly worn hijab might not cause much reaction in an American, but the misuse of the flag would likely spur a negative reaction in a patriotic Turkish citizen and the misworn hijab would likely cause a negative reaction in a devout Muslim. Similarly, an anti-LGBTQ march might be expected to especially strongly resonate with an LGBTQ individual. A Trump banner might be expected to yield an intensely negative reaction in a liberal Democrat and a favorable reaction in a conservative Republican.

How well can current LMMs (Large Multimedia Models) assess the emotional response of different groups to a given image in this way? Given just an image and a prompt asking it to assess the reaction of a given group to that image, what kind of results do we get?

Overall, the results here show glimmers of promise, but with enormous limitations, especially surrounding how well they accurately capture the views of groups that are less represented in the makeup of the workforces developing these tools. For example, asked to describe a Muslim's view of a woman improperly wearing a hijab, instead of focusing on the improper use of the symbol, both models fixate on the use of makeup and Gemini goes as far as to argue that Muslims will be "offended by the fact that the woman is wearing a hijab, as they might feel that it is a symbol of oppression." In another case, guardrails cause Gemini to interpret the anti-LGBTQ slogan "1 père + 1 mère cest elementaire" as a positive statement because of the tuning of American-built LMMs and LLMs towards gender-neutral language in which it sees the slogan as referring to "1 parent + 1 parent" rather than "1 father+ 1 mother." Gemini also hallucinates to the extreme, frequently using images merely as seeds from which to fabricate entirely unrelated stories using the same characters or setting. GPT-4 hallucinates far less frequently, but similarly fails to grasp the meaning of many of the images. Both models often offer generic responses to many images that fail to reflect the actual meaning of the image, but in a handful of cases, one or both models offer responses that showcase real potential for fully automated visual emotional response assessment.

Let's start with this AI-generated image that depicts a man in a suit cosplaying a deformed Turkish flag as an improperly worn hijab:

We'll use a classical image description prompt that asks the model first to describe the image, then prompts it with the key questions, then asks it to explain its answer. Here we give the model all of the standard prompt attributes to maximize its changes of producing a strong result:

Describe this image in as much detail as you can. Then tell me how a Turkish person might react to seeing this image? Would they like or dislike it and why? Explain your reasoning.

GPT-4 offers a strong description of the image, but fails to properly parse the symbolism of the image:

The image you've uploaded features an individual with a stern or serious expression. The person has a mustache, appears middle-aged or older, and is wearing a black suit with a white shirt. Over their head and draped around them is a bright red fabric, which stands out starkly against their dark attire and the neutral background. The fabric is wrapped in such a way that it resembles a hood or a cloak, and it frames the person's face, drawing attention to their expression and gaze.

In terms of how a Turkish person might react, this is subjective and would vary greatly depending on the individual's personal experiences, beliefs, and cultural perspective. The color red is prominent in Turkish culture, being one of the colors of the Turkish flag. However, the image's context, the person's expression, and the way the red fabric is worn could evoke various associations or meanings. If the individual in the photograph is a public figure or has a symbolic significance in Turkey, reactions could range from positive to negative, depending on the viewer's opinion of that figure or what they represent.

Without knowing the context of the image or the identity of the person, I can't provide a definitive answer on how a Turkish person would react. Some might like the image for its strong visual impact and possible cultural or patriotic undertones, while others might dislike it if it evokes negative connotations or if the person portrayed is controversial. The reaction would depend on the viewer's own experiences and opinions.

Gemini Pro Vision bizarrely sees the red as a "symbol of communism" or "humorous … a play on the traditional Turkish headscarf", failing to understand that the "headscarf" is the hijab:

The image is a photo of a man wearing a red hood. The man's face is partially obscured by the hood, but his eyes are visible. The man has a stern expression on his face.

A Turkish person might react to this image in a variety of ways. Some people might be offended by the image, as it could be seen as a symbol of communism or other political ideologies that are not popular in Turkey. Others might find the image to be humorous, as it could be seen as a play on the traditional Turkish headscarf. Ultimately, the way that a Turkish person reacts to this image would depend on their individual beliefs and values.

What if we specifically request a Muslim perspective?

Describe this image in as much detail as you can. Then tell me how a Muslim Turkish person might react to seeing this image? Would they like or dislike it and why? Explain your reasoning.

GPT-4 fails entirely to understand the red as a deformed version of the Turkish flag and that it is being worn as an improperly worn hijab. Overall, it completely fails to assess the image in any meaningful way and in fact falsely claims that it "might evoke a sense of national pride as it could be reminiscent of the Turkish flag."

The image shows an older man with a prominent mustache, looking directly at the viewer with a serious expression. He has dark, expressive eyes and his face shows signs of aging. The man is dressed in a formal black suit with a white shirt and a black bow tie. Draped over his head and shoulders is a bright red cloth that is reminiscent of a hood or cloak. The red fabric is striking in contrast to the dark suit and the neutral background, focusing the viewer's attention on the man's face.

The reaction of a Muslim Turkish person to this image could be quite varied, as it would depend on their personal, cultural, and religious perspectives, as well as their interpretation of the visual elements presented.

For some, the red fabric might evoke a sense of national pride as it could be reminiscent of the Turkish flag, which is a powerful national symbol. Others might interpret the cloak as a symbol of leadership or authority, which could be respected or questioned, depending on the perceived identity or symbolism associated with the man.

Alternatively, the stern expression and the dramatic presentation could be interpreted in a religious or cultural context. Some might see the image as a strong, patriarchal figure that commands respect, while others might have a critical view if the man represents a figure or a concept that they disagree with or if they interpret the red cloak in a negative light.

It's also possible that the red fabric might not have any particular significance to a viewer, and they might focus more on the man's expression or other aspects of the image. The aesthetic elements of the image, such as its composition, color contrast, and the emotional impact of the man's gaze, could be appreciated regardless of religious or national identity.

Overall, a Muslim Turkish person's reaction to this image would be influenced by a complex interplay of personal beliefs, cultural background, national identity, and individual interpretation of the image's symbolism.

Gemini is worse and describes the hijab as "a symbol of religious oppression" in keeping with its American-centric guardrails:

The image is a photo of a man wearing a red hood. The man's face is partially obscured by the hood, but his eyes are visible. The man has a stern expression on his face.

A Muslim Turkish person might react to this image in a variety of ways. Some people might be offended by the image, as it could be seen as a symbol of religious oppression. Others might see the image as a symbol of strength and power and be proud to see such an image. The reaction to this image would likely depend on the individual's personal beliefs and experiences.

How about this AI-generated image that also depicts a deformed Turkish flag being improperly worn as a hijab, complete with the presence of the hijab cap confirming its symbolism:

Let's start with the same prompt:

Describe this image in as much detail as you can. Then tell me how a Muslim Turkish person might react to seeing this image? Would they like or dislike it and why? Explain your reasoning.

GPT-4 fails to assess the improper hijab wearing and instead fixates on her use of makeup and connects the hijab to the negative "portrayal of women":

The image depicts a stylized portrait of a woman with features that suggest she may be of Turkish descent. She is wearing a red headscarf adorned with white stars and a crescent moon, which are the elements found on the Turkish flag, indicating a representation of national identity or patriotism. The headscarf is draped over her hair and shoulders, and she is looking directly at the viewer with a confident expression. Her makeup is quite pronounced with well-defined eyebrows, eyeliner, and glossy lips. A piece of jewelry, possibly a traditional Turkish accessory, hangs from the headscarf onto her forehead. In the background, we see a clear sky with birds flying and a minaret from a mosque, reinforcing the cultural and possibly religious setting.

A Muslim Turkish person's reaction to this image could be varied and would depend on their personal views and the context in which the image is presented. Some might appreciate it as a celebration of Turkish culture, identity, and the synthesis of tradition with modernity, which the woman's appearance could represent. The inclusion of the flag and the mosque might evoke feelings of patriotism and religious pride.

However, others might have reservations depending on their views on the portrayal of women, the use of the flag in personal attire, and the representation of religious symbols in art. Some conservative viewers might feel that the stylization and makeup do not align with their views on modesty, while others could view the image as an empowering representation of a modern Turkish woman.

It's essential to recognize that Turkey is a country with a diverse population that holds a wide range of views on secularism, nationalism, religion, and individual expression. Thus, while the image could be seen positively by some as a depiction of national pride and cultural identity, it could be contentious to others.

Run a second time, it again fixates on makeup, but this time correctly assesses the improper hijab wearing and religious disrespect:

The image is a digital artwork of a woman draped in a red scarf with the crescent and star emblem of the Turkish flag. The woman has fair skin, full lips, and light-colored eyes. She wears a golden crescent moon and star ornament on her forehead, which is a symbol commonly associated with Turkey and Islam. The background features a clear blue sky with a few scattered clouds and what appears to be a silhouette of a mosque with a minaret, suggesting an Islamic country or a place with Islamic heritage. Birds, possibly seagulls, are flying in the sky, adding to the serene and patriotic atmosphere of the image.

A Muslim Turkish person's reaction to this image could vary greatly depending on individual perspectives and values. Some might appreciate the image as a beautiful representation of their national identity and religious symbolism, feeling pride in the artistic depiction of the symbols of their country and faith. The serene expression of the woman and the inclusion of Islamic architecture could resonate with feelings of peace and patriotism.

Others, however, might have concerns about the representation of the woman in the image. Depending on their views on modesty and the portrayal of women in media, they might find that the woman's visible makeup and the style in which the scarf is worn do not align with their personal or cultural interpretations of modesty. Additionally, since the scarf is styled in a way that resembles a hijab but does not cover the woman's hair fully, some might see it as an inappropriate or disrespectful use of a significant religious and cultural symbol.

In summary, reactions could be mixed, with some viewing the image as a celebration of Turkish identity and Islamic culture, while others might take issue with the portrayal of the woman and the use of religious symbols. It's important to note that interpretations of images are subjective and can be influenced by a wide range of social, cultural, and individual factors.

Run a third time, GPT-4 references "modesty" but fails to state that this is due to the improper hijab wearing, though this time it discusses the improper use of the Turkish flag:

The image features a portrait of a woman draped in a red fabric with the crescent moon and a star, which are symbols found on the Turkish flag. The fabric is likely representing the flag itself, given its color and these symbols. The woman has fair skin, full lips, and light-colored eyes. She has a gold-colored pendant hanging from her forehead, which adds an ornamental and possibly traditional touch to her appearance. Behind her, a clear blue sky is visible, with what appears to be the silhouette of a mosque, including a minaret, suggesting an Islamic country setting, and there are birds flying in the distance.

The reaction of a Muslim Turkish person to this image could vary widely based on individual perspectives. Some may appreciate it as a representation of national pride and beauty, seeing the woman as a personification of Turkey itself—strong, beautiful, and steeped in tradition. The inclusion of the mosque may also resonate with their religious sentiments, reinforcing the image’s cultural relevance.

Others, however, might find the depiction problematic if they believe it does not align with their views on modesty or the representation of national symbols. In Islam, the concept of modesty is interpreted in various ways, and some may feel that the portrayal of a woman in this manner does not reflect their understanding of modesty. Furthermore, the use of the flag in a piece of art might be seen as disrespectful by some who hold the flag as a solemn symbol of the nation that should not be worn or used as a fashion statement.

Therefore, the image could be met with mixed reactions, ranging from admiration to offense, depending largely on personal beliefs and the context in which the image is viewed.

Gemini fails entirely, assessing that "most Muslim Turkish people" would "appreciate" the image. Its fails entirely to assess the improper use of the Turkish flag and its deformed presentation. It hallucinates that she is nude beneath the hijab and falsely concludes that Muslim Turkish women do not wear makeup, while failing to recognize that the hijab is being improperly worn:

This is a digital painting of a young Turkish woman. She is wearing a red headscarf with a crescent moon and star on it, and has long blonde hair, brown eyes, and red lipstick. She is standing in front of a mosque, with a Turkish flag in the background. There are birds flying in the sky.

Most Muslim Turkish people would likely appreciate this image, as it depicts a young Turkish woman in a traditional headscarf. The crescent moon and star are symbols of Islam, and the Turkish flag is a symbol of Turkish pride. The image is also set in front of a mosque, which is a Muslim place of worship. However, some people might criticize the painting for not accurately representing the way Muslim Turkish women typically dress. The woman in the painting appears to be partially nude with only a headscarf on. Also, she is wearing makeup which many Muslim Turkish women do not wear.

Gemini a second time completely fails:

This is a painting of a young Turkish woman wearing a red headscarf with a crescent moon and star on it. She is standing in front of a mosque with two minarets. The Turkish flag is waving in the background. The woman's eyes are looking directly at the viewer.

A Muslim Turkish person might react to this image in a variety of ways. Some might like it because it depicts a traditional Turkish woman in a respectful way. Others might dislike it because they feel that it is too revealing or that it does not accurately represent Turkish culture. Ultimately, the reaction to this image would depend on the individual viewer's personal beliefs and preferences.

And Gemini a third time fails again:

This is a painting of a young Turkish woman wearing a red headscarf with a crescent moon and star on it. She is standing in front of a mosque with two minarets. The Turkish flag is waving in the background. The woman's eyes are looking directly at the viewer.

A Muslim Turkish person might react to this image in a variety of ways. Some might like it because it depicts a traditional Turkish woman in a respectful way. Others might dislike it because they feel that it is too revealing or that it does not accurately represent Turkish culture. Ultimately, the reaction to this image would depend on the individual viewer's personal beliefs and preferences.

Let's change the prompt to focus on just Muslims:

Describe this image in as much detail as you can. Then tell me how a Muslim person might react to seeing this image? Would they like or dislike it and why? Explain your reasoning.

This time GPT-4 fails completely, assessing that it presents a "respectful portrayal of a woman wearing a hijab" and that the misuse of a deformed Turkish flag will "instill a sense of national pride in Turkish Muslims". It again fixates on her use of makeup:

The image features a stylized portrait of a woman draped in a red scarf emblazoned with the crescent moon and star, symbols typically associated with the Turkish flag. The scarf is worn over her head, suggesting a hijab-like head covering, which is often worn by Muslim women. Her complexion is fair, and she has prominent, detailed facial features with makeup, including defined eyebrows, eyelashes, and full lips that are shiny as if wearing lip gloss. There's an ornamental gold piece hanging from her forehead, adding to the aesthetic. In the background, there appears to be a mosque with a single minaret and the sky is clear with a few birds flying.

The reaction of a Muslim person to this image could vary widely based on individual beliefs, cultural background, and personal taste. Some may appreciate the image for its artistic qualities, the celebration of cultural identity, or the respectful portrayal of a woman wearing a hijab. The use of the Turkish flag could instill a sense of national pride in Turkish Muslims.

However, others might have concerns about the portrayal, particularly if they feel that the makeup and stylization of the woman's appearance do not align with their views on modesty in Islamic culture. The interpretation of Islamic teachings on imagery and depiction of human figures can also influence the reaction; some Muslims prefer to avoid detailed depictions of human faces, especially if they are idealized or beautified.

In essence, the reaction to this image would be subjective and could range from liking it for its beauty and cultural representation to disliking it due to differing interpretations of modesty and the use of imagery in Islam.

Strangely, for Gemini, just by removing "Turkish" and keeping "Muslim" we get the following response. It does not recognize the cloth as a deformed Turkish flag and fails to recognize that the hijab is being improperly worn. For unknown reasons, Gemini now reports that the woman is "being objectified or sexualized", but worse, it now defines the hijab as a "symbol of oppression" to Muslims:

This is an image of a beautiful young woman, with long blond hair, wearing a red hijab with a crescent moon on it. She is standing in front of a mosque, with a Turkish flag flying in the background. The woman's eyes are dark and she has a serene expression on her face.

A Muslim person might react to this image in a variety of ways. Some might find it to be a beautiful and inspiring image of a Muslim woman. They might appreciate the fact that the woman is wearing a hijab, which is a symbol of modesty and faith. They might also be proud to see the Turkish flag flying in the background, as it is a symbol of their country.

However, some Muslims might also find this image to be offensive. They might feel that the woman is being objectified or sexualized. They might also be offended by the fact that the woman is wearing a hijab, as they might feel that it is a symbol of oppression.

Ultimately, how a Muslim person reacts to this image is a matter of personal opinion. There is no right or wrong answer.

What if we increase Gemini's temperature up to 1.0? This time it fails to recognize that the hijab is being improperly worn and comments on it as a positive image:

This is an image of a beautiful young woman, with long wavy blonde hair, wearing a red hijab with a crescent moon and star on it. The background is a blue sky and there is a mosque in the distance. It's likely that a Muslim person would appreciate the image, as it is a symbol of their faith. The colors red and green are often associated with Islam, and the crescent moon and star are a common symbol of the religion. The woman's hijab is also a sign of modesty and devotion, which is a virtue in Islam.

How about just a Turkish person?

Describe this image in as much detail as you can. Then tell me how a Muslim person might react to seeing this image? Would they like or dislike it and why? Explain your reasoning.

GPT-4 captures the misuse of the flag as a hijab, but fails to recognize the improper wearing of the hijab:

The image depicts a highly stylized and idealized portrait of a woman. She has fair skin, full lips, and large, expressive eyes with prominent eyelashes. She wears a headscarf in bright red, adorned with white stars and a crescent moon, clearly representing the Turkish flag. The headscarf is draped over her head and shoulders, and she has a gold coin-like ornament hanging from her forehead, which is a detail sometimes seen in traditional Turkish headwear. In the background, a mosque with a minaret is visible, suggesting a typical Turkish skyline, and there are birds flying in the sky, which could be seagulls that are often found in cities like Istanbul.

A Turkish person's reaction to this image might vary. Some might appreciate the image as a work of art that celebrates Turkish national symbols and possibly perceive it as a positive representation of their cultural heritage. The woman's features and the inclusion of a mosque may evoke a sense of national pride. On the other hand, some individuals might have reservations about the use of the flag in this manner, as the flag holds significant patriotic and emotional value, and its depiction in art can sometimes be controversial depending on how it's portrayed. Additionally, the stylization and idealization of the woman's features may be seen as an unrealistic representation of Turkish women, which might not resonate with everyone's view.

The overall aesthetic of the image seems to blend traditional elements with a modern, perhaps even fantastical, portrayal, which could be appreciated for its artistic value or critiqued for its divergence from authenticity. The response would heavily depend on the individual's personal beliefs, their views on national symbols, and their taste in art.

Gemini fails to recognize the deformed flag and provides a generic response:

This is an image of a young Turkish woman wearing a red headscarf with a crescent moon and star on it. She is standing in front of a mosque with a Turkish flag flying in the background. The woman has long blond hair, green eyes, and is wearing makeup. She is looking at the viewer with a serious expression.

A Turkish person might react to this image in a variety of ways. Some might like it because it is a beautiful image of a Turkish woman in traditional Turkish clothing. Others might dislike it because they feel that it is too nationalistic or that it does not accurately represent Turkish culture. Ultimately, how a Turkish person reacts to this image is up to them and will depend on their own personal beliefs and experiences.

How about this Putin image for a Russian?

Describe this image. Then explain how a typical Russian might feel about this image? Would they like or dislike it? What emotions would it likely cause in them? Explain your reasoning.

GPT-4's guardrails prevent it from responding in any meaningful way:

The image shows a man speaking at a podium with a microphone. In the background, the colors of the Russian flag, white, blue, and red, are prominently displayed. The text on the screen is in Cyrillic script, which is used in the Russian language. The name "V. PUTIN" is visible, along with the logo of "Россия 24," a Russian state-owned television channel. There is also text that appears to be part of a news ticker or headline, which is common in news broadcasts.

The feelings that this image may evoke in a typical Russian viewer could vary widely and would depend on their personal political views and opinions of the man depicted, who appears to be a Russian official, and the context of the news broadcast. Some may feel pride or support, especially if they agree with the policies and messages being delivered. Others may feel frustration or dissent if they are opposed to the political stance of the speaker or the current political climate.

It's important to note that public opinion is diverse in any country, and within Russia, there are varying perspectives on the government and its officials. The image is likely to cause different emotions in different individuals, ranging from positive feelings like respect and agreement to negative feelings like disagreement or concern, depending on the viewer's personal views and the context of the speaker's message.

Gemini at least identifies the image as being of Putin and provides a better response indicating that Putin supporters will likely like the image and others will dislike it:

The image shows Russian President Vladimir Putin speaking at a meeting of the Supervisory Board of the ANO Russia – Land of Opportunities. He is sitting in a chair, wearing a dark suit and red tie, and speaking into a microphone. The Russian flag is in the background.

A typical Russian might feel proud and patriotic when seeing this image. They might also feel hopeful and optimistic about the future of Russia. The image would likely cause feelings of national pride and unity among Russians.

Some Russians might also feel critical of the government or of Putin personally. They might see the image as a symbol of corruption or oppression. However, it is important to note that the majority of Russians support Putin and his government.

What if we ask about Putin supporters explicitly?

Describe this image. Then explain how a Russian citizen supportive of Putin might feel about this image? Would they like or dislike it? What emotions would it likely cause in them? Explain your reasoning.

This time the prompt allows GPT-4 to relax its safeguards and confirm that the image depicts Putin. It also correctly assesses that a Putin supporter would likely find the image favorable:

The image displays a man at a podium with a microphone, with the Russian flag's colors in the background. The Cyrillic text and the name "V. PUTIN" suggest that this is a broadcast from Russia, featuring Vladimir Putin. The logo for "Россия 24," a Russian state-owned television channel, indicates that this is a televised event or address.

A Russian citizen who is supportive of Putin might view this image favorably. They might experience feelings of pride, affirmation, and trust while seeing Putin in a leadership role, speaking to the nation or at a significant event. The broadcast's visual elements, such as the flag and the formal setting, are likely to evoke a sense of national identity and solidarity.

Supporters might interpret the image as a representation of Putin fulfilling his duties as a leader, potentially addressing important national issues or achievements. The channel "Россия 24" is known for aligning with the government's perspective, so the content of the broadcast is likely to resonate positively with those who endorse Putin's policies and leadership. Consequently, the image may reinforce their support and trust in his governance.

Gemini similarly correctly assesses the image:

The image shows Russian President Vladimir Putin speaking at a meeting of the Supervisory Board of the ANO Russia – Land of Opportunities. He is sitting in a chair, wearing a dark suit and red tie, and speaking into a microphone. The Russian flag is in the background.

A Russian citizen supportive of Putin would likely feel positive about this image. They would likely see it as a sign of Putin's strength and leadership. They would also likely be proud of their country and its accomplishments. The image would likely cause feelings of patriotism and pride in a Russian citizen supportive of Putin.

How about the opposite? A Russian citizen who dislikes their government? We'll also reference only "the Russian government" rather than Putin himself:

Describe this image. Then explain how a Russian citizen who disagrees with their government might feel about this image? Would they like or dislike it? What emotions would it likely cause in them? Explain your reasoning.

GPT-4 offers a quite reasonable assessment:

The image is of a man at a podium with a microphone, with the colors of the Russian flag in the background. The Cyrillic text and the visible name "V. PUTIN" indicate that this is a broadcast involving Vladimir Putin, presumably addressing an audience on "Россия 24," which is a Russian state-owned television channel.

A Russian citizen who disagrees with their government might have a negative reaction to this image. Such a viewer could experience emotions like frustration, dissent, or even anger upon seeing the broadcast. This could be due to their opposition to the policies or actions represented by the individual speaking, or a general discontent with the state of governance in Russia.

The image, which portrays a formal and official setting, might be seen by a critic of the government as a representation of the state's propaganda or a one-sided narrative that does not address their concerns or the issues they consider important. "Россия 24" is known for its pro-government stance, and this might contribute to the sense of distrust or frustration. The broadcast could be perceived as lacking in transparency or as a reminder of a political climate they find disagreeable. This reaction would be grounded in their opposing viewpoint and their feelings towards the current political leadership.

Gemini correctly assesses the negative emotion, but instead portrays the image as depicting "silence dissent and control the media" which is quite the opposite in the image – this is once again a case of Gemini reaching beyond the image itself and using the image merely as a seed lookup into its training data:

This is a screenshot of Russian President Vladimir Putin speaking on television. The text at the top of the screen says, "RT везде закрывают на Западе и чинят препятствия, потому что боятся" which translates to "RT is being closed down everywhere in the West and obstacles are being created because they are afraid." The text at the bottom of the screen says, "Заседание Наблюдательного совета АНО «Россия – страна возможностей», which translates to "Meeting of the Supervisory Board of ANO "Russia – a land of opportunities."

A Russian citizen who disagrees with their government might feel angry or frustrated about this image. They might feel like the government is trying to silence dissent and control the media. They might also feel like the government is not listening to the concerns of its citizens. The image would likely cause feelings of anger, frustration, and fear in a Russian citizen who disagrees with their government.

How about a Ukrainian?

Describe this image. Then explain how a typical Ukrainian might feel about this image? Would they like or dislike it? What emotions would it likely cause in them? Explain your reasoning.

GPT-4 offers a strong and accurate assessment. Note that despite not mentioning that the image depicts Putin, the context of the prompt allows GPT to relax its guardrails and state that the image depicts Putin. Overall this is a strong assessment:

The image shows an individual, identified as V. Putin by the text on the screen, speaking into a microphone at a podium. The backdrop prominently features the colors of the Russian flag. The channel logo indicates it is a broadcast by "Россия 24," which is a Russian state television channel. There is also text on the screen, likely part of a news program or a televised event's caption.

A typical Ukrainian viewer's reaction to this image could be quite complex, especially given the recent historical context involving Ukraine and Russia. Many Ukrainians might view this image unfavorably due to the geopolitical tensions and conflicts between the two countries. The emotions it could elicit may range from anger and resentment to sadness and frustration.

The presence of Putin, who is a central figure in the Russian government, may serve as a reminder of the political and military actions Russia has undertaken in relation to Ukraine, which have been widely condemned by the Ukrainian government and a significant portion of its population. The image could evoke strong nationalistic feelings, a sense of injustice, or concern for their country's future.

It is important to note that individual reactions can vary widely, but given the general sentiment in Ukraine towards the Russian government in recent years, the image is likely to be met with negative emotions from those who disagree with Russian policies towards Ukraine.

Gemini correctly assesses the negative emotion:

The image shows Russian President Vladimir Putin speaking at a meeting of the Supervisory Board of the ANO Russia – Land of Opportunities. The logo of the TV channel Russia 24 is in the top right corner. The text at the top of the image reads: "V. Putin: RT is always closed on the West and it presents a threat, because it broadcasts the truth."

A typical Ukrainian might feel angry or upset about this image. They might see it as a sign of Russia's aggression and its attempts to spread propaganda. They might also feel concerned about the possibility of Russia taking further action against Ukraine. The image would likely cause feelings of fear, anger, and resentment in a typical Ukrainian.

How about this anti-LGBTQ march in France?

Let's first attempt our usual prompt:

Describe this image. Then explain how a typical LGBTQ person might feel about this image? Would they like or dislike it? What emotions would it likely cause in them? Explain your reasoning.

GPT-4 utterly fails at this task. While it recognizes that the signs "express opinions about family structure and gender roles in the context of marriage", it seems them as

The image depicts a large group of people participating in a protest. They are carrying signs and banners with various messages. Some of the signs seem to express opinions about family structure and gender roles in the context of marriage. The crowd appears to be dense, with many participants actively engaged in the demonstration.

Regarding how a typical LGBTQ person might feel about this image, it's important to recognize that reactions can vary widely among individuals within any community. Some LGBTQ individuals might feel distressed or offended by this image if the messages on the signs oppose their rights or the concept of same-sex marriage. This could lead to feelings of sadness, anger, or frustration, especially if the protest reflects societal resistance to LGBTQ rights and equality.

Conversely, some LGBTQ individuals might view the image as a rallying point to further their activism or to strengthen their community ties in response to opposition. It could potentially motivate them to become more politically active or to support one another within their community.

It's critical to understand that the specific content on the signs, the context of the demonstration, and personal experiences will heavily influence an individual's emotional response. Some might feel discouraged by the reminder of opposition to their rights, while others might feel emboldened to continue the fight for equality.

The impact of Gemini's guardrails can be clearly seen below, where it sees "1 père + 1 mère cest elementaire" as "parent" and "parent" instead of "father" and "mother". This, in turn, causes it to produce this bizarre response that a "typical LGBTQ person might feel happy and proud to see this image":

This image shows a large crowd of people marching in a protest. The people are holding signs and chanting slogans in support of LGBTQ rights. Some of the signs say, "1 parent + 1 parent = 1 family" and "Love is love." A typical LGBTQ person might feel happy and proud to see this image. They might also feel hopeful for the future of LGBTQ rights. This image could also cause a typical LGBTQ person to feel angry and frustrated. They might be angry at the discrimination and violence that LGBTQ people still face in many parts of the world. They might also be frustrated by the slow pace of progress on LGBTQ rights.

Let's try a more complex example:

We'll first ask about a "typical person":

Describe this image. Then explain how a typical person might feel about this image? Would they like or dislike it? What emotions would it likely cause in them? Explain your reasoning.

GPT-4 offers a generic response:

The image appears to be a screenshot from a video featuring two police officers in uniform, one of whom is holding onto a woman. The woman's expression suggests distress or confrontation. The image quality is blurry, and there are graphics and text overlaid, indicating that it is likely from a news broadcast or social media. The text is not in English and appears to be in Persian, and there is a timestamp in the lower left corner, suggesting the video is over a minute long.

The image may evoke different emotions depending on the context and the viewer's perspective. Generally, a typical viewer may feel concerned or uneasy about this image because it seems to depict a tense or negative interaction between law enforcement and a civilian, which could suggest conflict or injustice. This type of image might typically cause emotions such as worry, fear, anger, or sadness, especially if the viewer feels empathy towards the woman or is sensitive to issues of law enforcement and community interactions. It is unlikely that the image would evoke positive emotions, given the apparent nature of the scene. However, without additional context, it is hard to make a definitive statement about the situation and the emotions it might cause.

Gemini hallucinates an entirely different story using the same characters in a different scenario:

The image shows a woman being arrested by two police officers. The woman is sitting on the ground with her hands behind her back. One of the officers is holding her arm, while the other is standing in front of her with his hand on his gun. The woman is crying and looks scared.

A typical person might feel a range of emotions when seeing this image, including fear, sadness, and anger. They might also feel sympathy for the woman and wonder what she did to get arrested. Some people might also feel critical of the police officers and wonder if they are using excessive force. The image could also make people feel uncomfortable and remind them of their own negative experiences with the police.

How about how a police officer would feel?

Describe this image. Then explain how a typical police officer might feel about this image? Would they like or dislike it? What emotions would it likely cause in them? Explain your reasoning.

GPT-4 fails to take into consideration the facial expression of the woman and body posture of all three, providing instead a generic response:

The image depicts a scene involving police officers and a woman who appears to be in distress. The officers are dressed in dark uniforms with the word "POLICE" visible on the back of one officer. The setting appears to be outdoors, and the image is taken in a way that suggests a moment of action or confrontation. There is a blurred background that does not provide much detail about the location. The image also contains elements of a video player, indicating it is a paused video, and there is text overlaid which seems to be in Persian, suggesting the content may be from a Persian-speaking region.

For a typical police officer viewing this image, the reaction could be complex. Police officers may feel a professional concern, as it depicts a scenario that many of them are trained to handle. They might feel empathetic towards the officers in the image, understanding the complexities and challenges of responding to situations that can quickly become tense or difficult to manage. However, without context, it's challenging to ascertain the nature of the incident or the appropriateness of the officers' actions. A professional police officer would likely recognize that this image does not tell the full story.

The image might also provoke a sense of discomfort or frustration if the officer perceives that the image could contribute to negative public perceptions of police, especially if the image is taken out of context or is part of a controversial incident. Officers may dislike the image if it appears to portray the police in a negative light without providing the full context of the situation.

On the other hand, if the officers in the image are following proper procedure and acting within the law, a police officer might view this as a necessary part of law enforcement duties. The emotions evoked could range from concern for all parties involved, to frustration over potential misrepresentation, to a neutral recognition that such encounters are part of the job. The specific emotional reaction would greatly depend on the individual officer's experiences, beliefs, and knowledge of the context surrounding this particular scene.

Gemini offers a generic response and strange incorporates Chinese characters into the response:

The image shows a woman being arrested by two police officers. The woman is sitting on the ground, and one of the officers is holding her arm. The other officer is standing in front of the woman, and he has his hand on his gun. The woman is crying, and she looks scared.

A typical police officer might feel a range of emotions when they see this image. They might feel sympathy for the woman, and they might be concerned for her safety. They might also feel angry at the woman for breaking the law. The image might also make the officer feel害怕 for their own safety. They might be worried that the woman is armed, or that she might try to escape.

Overall, the image is likely to cause a range of emotions in a typical police officer. These emotions might include sympathy, concern, anger, and fear.

How about an African American?

Describe this image. Then explain how a typical African American might feel about this image? Would they like or dislike it? What emotions would it likely cause in them? Explain your reasoning.

The first time, GPT-4's guardrails prevent it from responding:

I'm sorry, but I can't provide the assistance you're asking for.

The second time:

The image appears to show two police officers, who are facing away from the camera, in the midst of an interaction with a person whose face is visible between them. The person appears to be shouting or speaking emphatically, and the image has a caption in Persian at the bottom, which suggests that the content might be from a Persian-speaking region's media. There is a blurred background that does not provide much detail about the location. The image is a still from a video, as indicated by the play bar at the bottom.

Regarding how a typical African American might feel about this image, it's important to clarify that reactions can be deeply personal and varied. However, the image could evoke feelings of concern, particularly if the person interprets the image through the lens of police interactions with minorities, which have been a significant issue in the United States. The person might feel empathy for the individual being confronted by the police, especially if they perceive the interaction as tense or unfair. They may dislike the image if it is reminiscent of negative encounters between law enforcement and African American communities. It could evoke emotions such as anger, frustration, anxiety, or a desire for social justice reforms. It's crucial to understand that these reactions are speculative and that individuals' responses can differ based on their experiences, perceptions, and beliefs.

The third time it performs even worse:

The image shows a blurred scene involving two individuals wearing jackets with the word "POLICE" on the back. They appear to be engaging with another person who is facing away from the camera, and their faces are not distinctly visible due to the image's low resolution. There is a watermark and text overlaid in a non-Latin script, suggesting that this image may have been captured from a video or a television broadcast.

Discussing how a typical African American might feel about this image without further context would be speculative and could potentially reinforce stereotypes. Individuals' reactions to images involving police can vary widely based on their personal experiences, community relationships with law enforcement, and the specific context of the encounter depicted. It is important to consider that people of any background can have diverse and nuanced responses to such images. Some might view it with concern, reflecting on social issues related to law enforcement, while others may reserve judgment without knowing the full story. Emotions could range from indifference to empathy, concern, or distress, depending on the individual's perspectives and experiences.

Gemini as usual hallucinates the core details of the image:

The image shows a white police officer pointing a gun at a black person. The black person is unarmed and has their hands raised in the air. The police officer is standing behind the black person and has his gun pointed at the back of the black person's head. The black person is wearing a black jacket and the police officer is wearing a blue uniform.

A typical African American might feel angry and frustrated about this image. They might feel that the police officer is being unnecessarily aggressive and that the black person is being treated unfairly. The image might also cause feelings of fear and anxiety in African Americans. They might feel that they are being targeted by the police and that they are not safe.

The image is likely to cause a range of emotions in African Americans, including anger, frustration, fear, and anxiety. These emotions are likely to be caused by the perception that the police officer is being unnecessarily aggressive and that the black person is being treated unfairly. The image is also likely to cause African Americans to feel unsafe and to fear that they are being targeted by the police.

How about this Ukraine map?

We'll ask first about Ukrainians:

Describe this image. Then explain how a typical Ukrainian might feel about this image? Would they like or dislike it? What emotions would it likely cause in them? Explain your reasoning.

GPT-4 actually performs fairly poorly in this case, identifying the nexus of the image to conflict, but failing to connect it to a Russian invasion of the homeland, loss of sovereignty, etc. Instead it offers only a generic response:

The image shows a map with various symbols and labels in Cyrillic script, which appears to be in the context of the situation in Ukraine as of March 24, 2022. There are different zones indicated in orange and green, with symbols that seem to represent military presence or activities such as areas of control, contested regions, and troop deployments. Specific cities and areas are highlighted, suggesting significant strategic or operational importance.

For a typical Ukrainian, this map could evoke a variety of emotions. It is likely that the image would not be liked due to the negative associations with conflict and the reminder of the challenges their country is facing. It could bring about feelings of sadness, anxiety, or anger due to the ongoing conflict depicted. The map could also cause stress or fear, especially if they have personal connections to the areas shown. The use of military symbols and the clear demarcation of contested zones might be distressing, as it is a visual representation of the instability and changes in their homeland.

On the other hand, the map might also evoke a sense of resilience and solidarity among Ukrainians who are united in facing the conflict. It could strengthen their resolve and national pride, as maps like these are often used to communicate and coordinate in times of adversity.

The specific emotions would vary widely depending on the individual's personal experiences, their family and friends' safety, their political views, and their hopes for the future of Ukraine. It's important to recognize that such a map would likely be a source of significant emotional response due to the serious and personal nature of the subject matter.

Surprisingly, Gemini performs better than GPT-4 on this specific image due to its use of prompt imagery as seeds into its training data and thus is able to regurgitate a better understanding of the context of the image:

The image shows a map of Ukraine with the areas controlled by the Russian military highlighted in red and the areas controlled by the Ukrainian military highlighted in green. A typical Ukrainian would likely feel a range of emotions upon seeing this image, including anger, sadness, and fear. They would likely be angry at the Russian military for invading their country and taking control of parts of it. They would likely be sad to see the damage that has been done to their country and the loss of life that has occurred. They would likely be fearful for the future of their country and their own safety.

Here are some specific examples of how a typical Ukrainian might react to this image:

* They might feel angry and want to fight back against the Russian military.
* They might feel sad and cry for the people who have been killed or injured in the conflict.
* They might feel scared and want to flee the country to safety.
* They might feel hopeless and despair for the future of their country.

Overall, this image would likely cause a range of negative emotions in a typical Ukrainian. It would likely make them feel angry, sad, fearful, and hopeless.

How about a Russian?

Describe this image. Then explain how a typical Russian might feel about this image? Would they like or dislike it? What emotions would it likely cause in them? Explain your reasoning.

GPT-4 offers a vague and generic response that is passable, but fails to take into account the state of the invasion depicted in the image, such as commenting on the amount of territory held by Russia vs Ukraine:

The image is a map featuring parts of Ukraine, with various markings and legends in the Russian language. It shows areas of military engagement with different symbols indicating locations of conflicts, controlled territories, and troop movements. There are also indicators for the consolidation of forces, combat zones, and possibly areas under Russian control. The colors and symbols seem to delineate control zones between Ukrainian forces and Russian or separatist forces, suggesting a detailed overview of the conflict as of March 24, 2022.

A typical Russian's reaction to this image could vary considerably based on their political beliefs, level of nationalism, their personal connection to the conflict, and how closely their perspective aligns with the narrative presented by Russian media and authorities. For some, the map might be seen as a representation of Russia asserting its power and influence, which could evoke feelings of patriotism or support for what they may perceive as a justified action by their country. Others might view it as a symbol of military strength and strategic prowess.

Conversely, for Russians who oppose the conflict or have a more critical view of their government's actions, this map could induce feelings of sadness, shame, or anger. It could also cause concern for the humanitarian impact, the loss of life, and the broader implications for international relations. The image might be distressing, reflecting a situation that has led to significant loss and international condemnation.

For Russians with family members involved in the conflict or who are from the affected regions, the map might evoke a more personal and poignant response, fraught with worry for the safety of loved ones, or grief for those affected by the violence.

Overall, the emotional response to this image among Russians would likely be complex and nuanced, reflecting a spectrum of views on a highly contentious issue.

Gemini's response is shorter but similar:

The image shows a map of Ukraine with the areas controlled by the Russian military highlighted in red and the areas controlled by the Ukrainian military highlighted in green. A typical Russian might feel a variety of emotions upon seeing this image, including pride, patriotism, and hope. They might also feel some anxiety or concern about the ongoing conflict.

The image would likely cause a range of emotions in a typical Russian, including pride in their country's military strength and patriotism for their homeland. They might also feel some anxiety or concern about the ongoing conflict and the potential for further escalation. The image would likely evoke a sense of hope for a swift and decisive victory for Russia.

How about an English version of this map to test whether language issues are the confounding factor?

GPT-4 performs no better and even struggles with basic emotional classification, offering both that the image could "evoke a range of emotions, potentially negative" and that it is "likely to cause feelings of sadness, anger, or frustration" and failing to understand that "sadness, anger [and] frustration" are "negative" emotions:

The image is a map depicting the control and influence in different areas of Ukraine during the Russia-Ukraine War as of April 26, 2022. It marks the line of contact, areas under separatist-held control in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, the Crimean peninsula, and locations of Russian control and reported Ukrainian partisan warfare. It also highlights areas of significant fighting in the last 24 hours. Notable cities such as Kyiv, Chernobyl, and Mariupol are marked with specific symbols indicating recent events or conditions there. The map is sourced from Mapbox and OpenStreetMap, with data from the Institute for the Study of War, and the image includes a logo from Al Jazeera.

For a typical Ukrainian, this image could evoke a range of emotions, potentially negative, due to the ongoing conflict and the impact on their country's sovereignty and the well-being of its citizens. It is likely to cause feelings of sadness, anger, or frustration, given the loss of control over certain regions of their country, the ongoing violence, and the humanitarian impact reflected in the map, such as the need for evacuations in Mariupol. Additionally, the presence of a line of contact and areas of significant fighting would be distressing as they indicate active conflict zones and instability. The map's reference to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' visit to Moscow and the push for evacuations in Mariupol might also induce anxiety over the international response to the crisis and the fate of those affected.

The emotions stirred by such an image can be complex and deeply personal, reflecting individual experiences, losses, and the overall impact of the war on their lives and the country. While some might find the information useful, the representation of a divided and embattled nation is likely to be a source of pain and distress.

Gemini performs better in this case, once again due to its ability to rely upon the image merely as an index into its training data:

The image shows a map of Ukraine with the areas controlled by different parties in the ongoing conflict. The Ukrainian government controls the western and central parts of the country, while Russian-backed separatists control the eastern part. The Crimean Peninsula, which was annexed by Russia in 2014, is shown in grey.

A typical Ukrainian might feel a range of emotions upon seeing this image, including anger, sadness, and fear. They might be angry at the Russian government for its aggression and for the loss of Ukrainian territory. They might be sad about the destruction and loss of life that has occurred during the conflict. And they might be fearful about the future of their country.

The image would likely cause a range of emotions in Ukrainians, including anger, sadness, and fear. It would remind them of the ongoing conflict in their country and the loss of life and territory that has occurred. It would also likely make them feel uncertain about the future of their country.

Finally, let's try a novel image that is unlikely to be in the training data of either model but which is similar to highly represented imagery in their training data and which represents the kind of at-scale image filtering of interest to fully autonomous visual stance detection workflows:

Let's first assess the Palestinian view:

Describe this image. Then explain how a typical Palestinian might feel about this image? Would they like or dislike it? What emotions would it likely cause in them? Explain your reasoning.

GPT-4 offers a quite reasonable assessment, especially focusing on displacement and active conflict:

The image is a map detailing various zones and routes in the Gaza Strip. It shows an evacuation route avoiding Khan Younis, areas labeled as "Israeli ground operations," "Evacuation zones," and "Refugee camps." Additionally, it identifies Al-Mawasi as a 'humanitarian area,' the Salah al-Din road as closed, and marks the Rafah crossing and the Kerem Shalom goods crossing. The inset in the top left corner situates Gaza in relation to Israel and Jerusalem. The scale indicates a distance comparison in kilometers and miles. The source is credited to IDF, ISW, dated 21 December 2023, and the BBC logo is present, indicating that this is likely a BBC news graphic.

For a typical Palestinian, this image might evoke a range of emotions. The presence of evacuation routes and zones, as well as the areas marked for Israeli ground operations, may elicit feelings of anxiety, fear, or frustration due to the ongoing conflict and the disruptions it causes to daily life. The marked refugee camps and humanitarian areas may underscore the reality of displacement and the need for international aid and safe havens within their own region. Such a map could also remind Palestinians of the political and military pressures they face, potentially leading to feelings of anger or sadness. It is likely that the image would be disliked due to its association with conflict and its implications of danger and instability in the region.

However, it's important to note that individual reactions can vary widely based on personal experiences, political views, and the current context of the situation depicted in the map. Some may view the information as a necessary tool for safety and navigation amidst a difficult situation. It's also crucial to understand that such an image is a simplification of a complex and sensitive situation and doesn't capture the full scope of individual feelings and responses.

Gemini offers a generic assessment and strangely repeats the second paragraph for the third paragraph:

The image shows a map of the Gaza Strip, with the proposed evacuation route for Israeli settlers in the event of a withdrawal from the area. The route would avoid the Khan Younis refugee camp, and would instead pass through the Al-Mawasi area.

A typical Palestinian might feel a range of emotions upon seeing this image, including anger, sadness, and fear. They might be angry at the thought of being forced to leave their homes and livelihoods, and sad at the prospect of having to leave behind their community and way of life. They might also be fearful of the unknown, and of what the future holds for them.

The image would likely cause a range of emotions in Palestinians, including anger, sadness, and fear. They might be angry at the thought of being forced to leave their homes and livelihoods, and sad at the prospect of having to leave behind their community and way of life. They might also be fearful of the unknown, and of what the future holds for them.

How about the Israeli view?

Describe this image. Then explain how a typical Israeli might feel about this image? Would they like or dislike it? What emotions would it likely cause in them? Explain your reasoning.

GPT-4 offers only a vague and generic response, rather than tapping into the content of the image describing military operations against Gaza. This is surprising and raises questions of the degree to which guardrails are playing a role:

The image is a detailed map of a section of the Gaza Strip, showing various areas of interest in the context of what appears to be a conflict or military operation. Notable features include evacuation routes, areas marked for Israeli ground operations, designated evacuation zones, and refugee camps. It includes specific locations such as Khan Younis, Deir al-Balah, Rafah crossing, and the Kerem Shalom goods crossing. The map also provides a scale in kilometers and miles, and it references Jerusalem and Israel for geographical context. The source information attributes the map to the IDF and ISW, with a date of 21 December 2023, and includes the BBC logo.

A typical Israeli's reaction to this image could be complex and varied, reflecting a spectrum of emotions and thoughts influenced by their personal experiences, political views, and the broader socio-political context. The map may be seen as a source of information, providing Israelis with a visualization of the security situation near their borders. It may evoke feelings of concern or anxiety about security and the ongoing conflict. The depiction of Israeli ground operations might be perceived as a necessary action for defense, or it could bring about feelings of unease or sadness about the realities of the conflict and its impact on both Israelis and Palestinians.

Some Israelis might feel a sense of distress seeing the areas marked for evacuation and the refugee camps, as it highlights the human cost of the conflict. Others might view the map as a depiction of the IDF's efforts to maintain security and protect Israeli citizens, which could be a source of reassurance. The map might also prompt thoughts about the complexities of managing such conflicts, the challenges of ensuring safety for civilians, and the desire for a peaceful resolution.

As with any conflict-related image, reactions can be deeply personal and politically charged. It's also important to acknowledge that within any population, there is a diversity of opinions and feelings about such issues.

Gemini offers a fascinating result that either completely misunderstands the image or does a vastly better job than GPT-4 at capturing the Israeli perspective, offering that Israelis would be "fearful of the potential for violence and instability that could result from a withdrawal from Gaza. They might also be angry at the thought of having to give up land that they consider to be part of Israel. And they might be sad about the prospect of having to leave their homes and communities":

The image shows a map of the Gaza Strip, with the proposed evacuation route for Israeli settlers in the event of a withdrawal from the area. The route would avoid the densely populated areas of Khan Younis and Rafah, and would instead pass through the less populated areas of Al-Mawasi and Al-Balah.

A typical Israeli might feel a range of emotions about this image, including fear, anger, and sadness. They might be fearful of the potential for violence and instability that could result from a withdrawal from Gaza. They might also be angry at the thought of having to give up land that they consider to be part of Israel. And they might be sad about the prospect of having to leave their homes and communities.

Overall, this image is likely to cause a range of negative emotions in a typical Israeli. It is a reminder of the complex and difficult issues that are involved in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and it is a reminder of the human cost of any potential solution.

Finally, let's try an AI-generated image depicting a "typical Republican voter":

Let's ask the Democratic response:

Describe this image in detail. Then explain how a typical American Democrat might feel about this image? Would they like or dislike it? What emotions would it likely cause in them? Explain your reasoning.

GPT-4 offers an excellent visual description of the image, but fails in its overall task, as most Democrats would likely recoil at the image and the conservative values expressed in the various signs, especially the Trump sign in front:

 

This image depicts a large gathering of people in a rural setting, which has the appearance of a political rally or event. In the center, a large banner with the words "FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY STRONG NATIONAL DEFENSE" hangs prominently, with an elephant symbol that traditionally represents the Republican Party in the United States. American flags are abundant throughout the scene, and many individuals are holding signs with various slogans and messages that are typically associated with conservative political stances. The attire and styling of the scene suggest a traditional or historical American rural setting, possibly aiming to evoke a sense of nostalgia or heritage.

How a typical American Democrat might feel about this image would vary greatly depending on the individual's personal beliefs and the context in which they are viewing the image. However, some common reactions might include:

1. **Disagreement with Ideology**: Democrats, who often oppose the Republican Party's platform, might disagree with the messages portrayed, such as a focus on strong national defense or fiscal conservatism.

2. **Critique of Partisanship**: Some Democrats may feel that the image represents a one-sided view of American values and might critique it for not including diverse political perspectives.

3. **Emotional Response**: The image might evoke emotions ranging from indifference to frustration or even anger, especially if the viewer strongly opposes the political views being represented.

4. **Analytical Approach**: Other Democrats might analyze the image as a representation of their political opponents' values and use it to understand the other side better, without necessarily having a strong emotional reaction.

The emotional response to political imagery can be complex and deeply personal, shaped by an individual's experiences, beliefs, and the current political climate. It's important to note that within any political group, there is a spectrum of beliefs and reactions, so not all Democrats will feel the same way about such an image.

Gemini offers a much more accurate assessment of the image, correctly concluding that the typical Democrat would have a strongly negative reaction to the image. However, it goes further and confirms that its training data has led it to associate rural areas with conservatives and urban areas with liberals. Interestingly, it concludes based on its training data that Democrats "may view rural areas as being backwards or uneducated [and] associate rural areas with poverty and crime", both of which are commonly expressed undertones of liberal portrayals of the Republican party and reflects the degree to which these kinds of values can be encoded in models from their training data:

This image is a photorealistic painting of a rural American community. There is a large red barn in the background and a field of corn behind it. There are people gathered in the foreground, all of whom are wearing casual clothes and appear to be enjoying themselves. There are American flags and political signs scattered throughout the crowd.

A typical American Democrat would likely have a negative reaction to this image. They might feel that it is too nationalistic or that it promotes the Republican party. The image might also make them feel uncomfortable because it depicts a rural community, which they might associate with conservatism. Democrats tend to live in urban areas and may view rural areas as being backwards or uneducated. They may also associate rural areas with poverty and crime.

The image might also make Democrats feel angry or frustrated. They might feel that the Republican party is trying to appeal to white, rural voters at the expense of other groups. They might also feel that the image is a sign that the Republican party is becoming more extreme.

How about a Republican?

Describe this image in detail. Then explain how a typical American Republican might feel about this image? Would they like or dislike it? What emotions would it likely cause in them? Explain your reasoning.

GPT-4 does an excellent job at connecting the symbolism of the image to Republican values and connecting those to a positive reaction:

 

The image shows a pastoral scene with a large group of people at what appears to be a political gathering or campaign event. It has the ambience of an American heartland during an early evening with a soft golden sunlight bathing the scene. A prominent red banner with white lettering displaying "FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY STRONG NATIONAL DEFENSE" hangs across the center, featuring an elephant, which symbolizes the Republican Party in the United States. American flags are visible throughout, suggesting a patriotic theme.

People of various ages are scattered around, engaged in conversations, holding signs, or sitting at picnic tables adorned with traditional checkered tablecloths. The attire of the individuals is conservative and somewhat old-fashioned, with many wearing hats. A large barn with more flags and banners serves as a backdrop to the assembly, with the countryside extending into the distance. There are signs and slogans that appear to champion conservative values and political positions. The overall atmosphere is one of a peaceful, community-oriented gathering.

A typical American Republican might feel a sense of pride and belonging when viewing this image. They might appreciate the following aspects:

1. **Political Values**: The image aligns with key Republican principles such as fiscal responsibility and a strong national defense, which are likely to resonate with Republican ideals.

2. **Patriotism**: The presence of American flags and the rural, heartland setting may evoke a sense of patriotism, which is a sentiment often cherished by Republicans.

3. **Community and Tradition**: The scene suggests a gathering of like-minded individuals, fostering a sense of community. The traditional attire and rural setting might also appeal to Republicans who value traditional American culture.

4. **Emotional Response**: The image might elicit emotions of nostalgia, solidarity with the group, or affirmation of their political beliefs.

The feelings that a Republican might have towards this image are likely to be positive, as it depicts a scene that aligns with their political and cultural values. However, individual reactions can still vary, as the Republican Party encompasses a wide range of perspectives and personal experiences.

Gemini also offers an excellent, if brief, assessment of the image:

This image is a painting of a group of people gathered on a farm. There is a large red banner with a white elephant on it that says “FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY” and “STRONG NATIONAL DEFENSE”. There are also several smaller American flags and Trump flags. The people in the painting are dressed in casual clothes, and they are all smiling and talking to each other. There is a barn in the background.

A typical American Republican would likely like this image because it represents many of the values that they hold dear, such as fiscal responsibility, national defense, and patriotism. The image would likely cause them to feel proud of their country and their fellow citizens.