Artificial intelligence today (properly known as ‘narrow’ or ‘weak’ AI) is progressing at an ever-accelerating pace. AI can encompass anything from Google’s search algorithms to IBM’s Watson. However, AI is also being exploited by governments eager to enhance their power over an ever-more digitally-dependent world.
Simon McCarthy-Jones, Associate Professor in Clinical Psychology and Neuropsychology at Trinity College Dublin, reveals why the ‘technological elite’ require ‘checks and balances’ in the use and development of artificial intelligence.
AI is the ultimate source of knowledge, making it the ultimate source of power
Professor Simon McCarthy-Jones
He told Express.co.uk: “AI is the ultimate source of knowledge, making it the ultimate source of power.
“The Russian President, Vladimir Putin, says that whoever leads the world in AI will rule it. He is right.
“The only remaining question is whether, in a decade’s time, it will be the US, the EU, or China who leads in this area.”
However, he added issues with AI already need to be addressed.
He said: “AI is already being exploited by those with authoritarian tendencies.
“It has been integrated into Russia’s ongoing information warfare campaigns.
“China is using it for surveillance, both at home and abroad.
“As China continues to invest in AI, its tools will become more sophisticated and widespread.
“This will give the Chinese Communist Party unprecedented power.”
Professor McCarthy-Jones also warns even ‘liberal regimes’ in the West cannot be trusted with AI either.
He said: “This technology will increasingly be used to manipulate our purchasing and voting decisions.
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“But this does not mean we should flounder in the comfort of the known and refuse to develop AI.
“On the contrary, open societies should lead its development.”
But the expert does not believe the inherent dangers of AI are not inevitable.
He said: “But we must become the conscience of AI, developing it without feeding the fervour for domination that blights our species.
“We need checks and balances to control the use of this technology and a transparent public debate about how to use it.
“These decisions are too important to be left to a technological elite.”
“One way to save ourselves is through a commitment to human rights.
“AI threatens privacy and free thought. These are basic human rights.
“We, through our courts and elected representatives, cannot allow those wielding AI to undermine these rights.
“Indeed, we should be asking how AI can support these rights.”
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