Authors Guild Launches 'Human Authored' Certification to Combat AI in Literature
January 30, 2025
The Authors Guild has launched a 'Human Authored' certification to confirm that books are written by humans rather than AI.
Despite the rise of AI in publishing, the Authors Guild emphasizes the importance of human creativity and effort in storytelling.
In a related context, the U.S. Copyright Office has ruled that works created entirely by generative AI cannot be copyrighted, highlighting the lack of individual authorship.
While the UK lacks a similar initiative, the Society of Authors has developed guidelines to help its members protect their work from AI influences.
This initiative aims to create transparency and celebrate the unique human storytelling elements, catering to readers' desire for genuine human connection in literature.
A recent survey by the Society of Authors indicated that over a third of translators have lost work opportunities due to generative AI, prompting calls for government regulation to ensure ethical usage.
Kester Brewin, an author, praised the Authors Guild portal for promoting transparency regarding AI use in writing, which is essential for maintaining trust between writers and readers.
A public database will be established to showcase books that have received the human certification, ensuring transparency about authorship for readers.
Currently, the 'Human Authored' certification is exclusive to Authors Guild members, but there are plans to expand it to non-members and collaborative works in the future.
The certification allows authors to utilize AI tools for tasks like spell-checking or research, as long as the literary expression remains human-generated.
This initiative was first announced in late 2024 in response to the increasing prevalence of AI-generated books on platforms like Amazon and Kindle.
Authors can certify their work by logging into the portal and signing a licensing agreement, allowing them to display a specialized 'Human Authored' logo on their book covers and promotional materials.
Summary based on 5 sources
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Sources

The Guardian • Jan 30, 2025
US Authors Guild to certify books from ‘human intellect’ rather than AI
The Verge • Jan 30, 2025
Books written by humans are getting their own certification
AP News • Jan 30, 2025
Authors Guild sets up 'Human Author' portal to certify books come from 'human intellect'
Gizmodo • Jan 30, 2025
Books Written Without AI Can Now Receive New 'Human Authored' Certification