Dead Writing Theory
Is the web's writing dying into one machine voice? Tested, one case at a time.
Tests the claim that the web's writing is collapsing into one machine voice, case by case, with data.
Status: Live · content · built and run by Jack Stovell at Adapt Progress Evolve
What it is
Dead Writing Theory tests one claim: that since ChatGPT, the writing on the web has collapsed into one machine voice. It is framed as a trial, with evidence for (prosecution) and against (defence) logged as numbered exhibits, and each study a case with a verdict.
Who it's for
Anyone who has heard that everything online now sounds the same and wants to see the evidence on both sides.
How it works
- A trial, not a take. Prosecution exhibits argue the theory, defence exhibits answer it. The site argues neither side.
- Measured with code. Our own studies are measured with deterministic code, never a language model.
- Other people's work, credited. Outside studies are linked, credited and weighed with their caveats.
Timeline
- — Went live
Facts
- Format
- Cases with a verdict
- Own studies measured by
- Code, not a model
Under the hood
Stack: Astro, Cloudflare.
Agents in the fleet that work on it: Writer.
FAQ
What is Dead Writing Theory?
Dead Writing Theory is a site that tests the claim that web writing is collapsing into one machine-made voice, publishing evidence for and against it, case by case.
Is it connected to the Dead Internet Theory?
It is a nod to the Dead Internet Theory but narrower: it covers the measurable corner of writing (prose, copy, advertising and marketing), and is not affiliated with that theory or any site associated with it.
Does it use AI to judge writing?
Not for its own studies. Those are measured with deterministic code, never a language model.