Arguably more than any massive transformational technological epoch, AI has required more scrutiny of its ethical implications because of its breadth, real or perceived lack of explainability, and the uniquely dramatic impact it can have on people’s daily lives. But ultimately, when we talk about ethics in AI, so often what we’re really talking about is power—who wields it, who doesn’t, and what that means for humanity. Power in AI, it turns out, amplifies all of the power structures (and disempowerment structures) that already exist in business, government, and society. Through the lens of power, we’ve found fresh insight for ourselves that we hope translates to the page, for you the reader.
At the Common Good in the Digital Age tech conference recently held in Vatican City, Pope Francis urged Facebook executives, venture capitalists, and government regulators to be wary of the impact of AI and other technologies. “If mankind’s so-called technological progress were to become an enemy …
Bipartisanship in modern politics can seem kind of like an unbelievable, mythical creature. But in recent months, as Congress considered regulation of one of the most controversial topics it faces — how, when, or if to use facial recognition — we’ve gotten glimpses of a political unicorn. In two …
The immense capabilities artificial intelligence is bringing to the world would have been inconceivable to past generations. But even as we marvel at the incredible power these new technologies afford, we’re faced with complex and urgent questions about the balance of benefit and harm. When most …
