Subject: Concern Regarding "ChatGPT AI Cover Art" Listopia Post

[Richard]

Subject: Concern Regarding "ChatGPT AI Cover Art" Listopia Post

I am writing to formally raise concern about an active Listopia post titled “ChatGPT AI cover art.” This list makes sweeping, unverified assertions that any book featuring a particular style of cover art—especially if published after March 2025—is likely to be AI-generated in both content and design.

The post specifically:

Claims that books with certain visual styles are “highly likely” to be AI-generated.

Encourages readers to avoid such books entirely, based solely on appearance.

Equates visual similarity with fraudulent or misleading intent.

Provides no disclaimers, moderation, or factual verification.

This kind of public labelling borders on defamation by implication, especially where authors have produced original work using legally obtained design elements. The damage such posts can inflict on an author’s reputation is not trivial.

If Goodreads allows such content to persist without review or moderation, it risks being perceived as endorsing or enabling defamatory and prejudicial assumptions. This is not only ethically questionable, but—particularly under UK defamation law—could potentially be seen as legally actionable.

Furthermore, individuals involved in maintaining this list or posting negative reviews against authors based on speculation rather than fact should be aware they may also be exposing themselves to legal consequences.

I urge Goodreads moderators to review this Listopia post and consider implementing clearer community standards regarding AI-related accusations and speculative content targeting specific authors or design styles.

Constructive discussion about the evolving use of AI in publishing is welcome and necessary—but it must be grounded in fact, not fearmongering.