Typically, we use this space to talk about technology-related issues that have a positive impact on business, society, and individuals. Information technology has and will continue to transform the world we live in. One of the central topics of this giant IT transformation is artificial intelligence (AI) and where it fits into the paradigm of modernity. Much has been made about the potential benefits of AI—and many of them are legitimate—but in today’s blog, we wanted to discuss the dark side of AI, and whether or not immediate regulation of the technology is a prudent decision.
People who use AI have very little idea of what they are actually using. Today’s AI isn’t just some all-knowing creation; in fact, today’s AI is being developed to mimic human intelligence using complex algorithms, data, and the power of computers. Basically, AI uses math and logic to simulate human intelligence, but does it much more efficiently. This sounds great, but there are some things about the technology that should be considered.
For every person using AI to improve productivity and build efficiency, there is one looking to get over on someone else. Hackers are using AI to automate their theft of data; companies are using AI to reduce costs by laying off employees; and individuals are using AI to misrepresent or manipulate the throngs of naive people who believe anything they see and hear online. Unfortunately, for anything positive you can do with technology, there is typically something that you can do that hurts others.
Sometimes it’s just the nature of the beast that can be construed as a negative. If you have never heard the term “AI black box” it describes the lack of understanding that people can have of how AI does its thing. You know how in school math teachers would always want you to “show your work” so they could see that you understand the concepts you were working with? Since AI is asked to do extremely important things, it could be a terrible misstep to not have some transparency involved.
This brings us to our last point: bias. AI runs on data. The most impressive thing about AI is how quickly it can come up with the information you need it to come up with. If the underlying data that it uses to come up with that information is biased in any way, you will find that the replies you get out of AI-fueled platforms will hold that bias. Unfortunately, this is true for humans as well, but when depending on AI, it can really put information out there that is counterproductive to the goals that your organization has set.
The question isn’t so cut and dry. Regulating AI could be important to make sure it's used in fair and safe ways. Without rules, AI often makes biased and unfair decisions; it can invade people's privacy; and could have a truly negative impact on modern society. Also, if AI tools are used for bad purposes, they could become a threat to privacy and security. Regulations can help set clear rules, making sure AI is used responsibly and for the good of everyone.
Some people think too many rules could slow down new ideas and make it harder for technology to get better, however. The challenge is to find a balance between safety and allowing technology to grow. If rules are too strict, small companies might struggle to compete with bigger ones who can handle meeting the regulatory mandates set forth. Some believe it's better to have guidelines that encourage AI creators to be responsible rather than strict laws. The goal is to make rules that protect people, help technology develop safely, and can change as AI keeps improving.
AI is cool, but you have to know that it isn’t omnipotent. It is constructed to do what humans do faster and better. Humans make mistakes and therefore AI will as well. If you would like to learn more about how AI fits into a business and how to avoid the pitfalls that come with using such an innovative technology, give the IT experts at First Column IT a call at (571) 470-5594 today.
