The ‘uncanny valley’ theory meets Javier Milei and Fernando Cerimedo
The reality of the Milei administration’s near three years in office is even more bizarre than expected. Leer más
In 1970, Japanese roboticist Masahiro Mori introduced the term "uncanny valley" to describe the unsettling, almost repulsive reaction humans have when encountering nearly life-like robots. Mori argued that as robots become more human-like, people's affection grows, until they reach a point where the robot is almost indistinguishable from a real human but still not quite there. At that moment, affection turns to revulsion, hence the "descent into eeriness" known as the uncanny valley.
This concept remains highly relevant in today's age of artificial intelligence, particularly as AI-generated images and videos proliferate in our information ecosystem, shaping human subjectivity and culture. Many supporters of libertarian politician Javier Milei in Latin America are experiencing a similar descent into eeriness as the libertarian project fails to deliver promised outcomes and scandals and eccentric characters erode trust in society.
Political strategist Fernando Cerimedo, a former partner in Bolivia under Rodrigo Paz's government, recently became entangled in another scandal. Ceremedo was arrested at Viru Viru airport in Santa Cruz de la Sierra while attempting to board a flight to Buenos Aires. Bolivian actress Nadia Beller, who alleged that Ceremedo was involved in her assassination attempt, claimed they had been romantically involved and had a child together.
Ceremedo, a former employee of Jair Bolsonaro's 2022 campaign, has a history of scandals involving disinformation and fake news during the Brazilian election as well as links to the failed coup.
Ceremedo has also been associated with Milei's successful presidential campaign, particularly in the digital information ecosystem where the libertarians excelled. He was linked to a corruption scheme involving Presidential Chief-of-Staff Karina Milei and leaked audio recordings alleging a three-percent bribe collected on medication purchases.
As the libertarian political project struggles to deliver results, Milei's image is increasingly tainted by scandals and eccentric associates, creating a sense of eeriness in his public persona. This "uncanny valley" effect could potentially damage Milei's reputation and voting prospects in upcoming elections.
Written by urgent.news from Buenos Aires Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
