Written by Aman Bandvi on Digilah (Tech Thought Leadership)
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the way we live, work, and interact with each other. As AI becomes more pervasive, it has the potential to influence collective thoughts and actions, shaping the future of our society. However, as with any technology, AI is not immune to bias. Biases in AI systems can skew insights and form a base for ill-conceived actions, ultimately impacting our society in negative ways.
According to Cathy O’Neil, mathematician and author of “Weapons of Math Destruction,” “Algorithms are opinions embedded in code.” This means that the way AI systems are developed and the data they are trained on can reflect the biases and assumptions of their creators. As a result, AI systems can perpetuate biases and discrimination, often unintentionally.
As AI systems become more pervasive, they can reinforce existing biases and stereotypes, leading to a self-perpetuating cycle. Joy Buolamwini, computer scientist and founder of the Algorithmic Justice League, notes that “We are coding the future and we have the opportunity to create a world that is fair, equitable, and just. But, if we don’t take proactive steps, AI has the potential to exacerbate and perpetuate inequalities.”
In society, biases in AI systems can result in discriminatory practices in areas such as employment, criminal justice, and healthcare. For example, AI algorithms used in hiring processes have been shown to discriminate against certain groups, such as women and people of color. Similarly, AI algorithms used in the criminal justice system have been shown to be biased against people of color, resulting in harsher sentences and wrongful convictions.
The concerns of biased AI systems are not just theoretical but are already impacting our society in real ways.
The increasing use of AI in decision-making processes, from hiring to loan approvals, means that biases in AI systems can have real-world consequences for individuals and communities.
AI bias can have a significant impact on sensitive societies in developing nations. In many cases, these societies may be vulnerable to discrimination and marginalization due to factors such as race, ethnicity, religion, or caste. If AI systems are not developed with sensitivity to these factors, they may perpetuate biases and reinforce existing inequalities. For example, in healthcare, biased AI systems may result in certain communities receiving inadequate or inferior care, leading to negative health outcomes. Similarly, in employment and education, biased AI systems may limit opportunities for certain groups, perpetuating cycles of poverty and marginalization. It’s important that AI developers and policymakers in developing nations prioritize ethical AI development and work to ensure that AI systems do not perpetuate discrimination or exacerbate existing inequalities.
It’s crucial that we take proactive steps to address AI bias. This includes auditing AI systems for potential biases, increasing diversity and representation in AI development teams, and creating transparency in AI systems. As Timnit Gebru, computer scientist and AI ethics researcher, notes, “If we want AI to be ethical, it has to be transparent, and it has to be accountable.”
As individuals, we can also play a role in promoting ethical AI development. By being discerning and alert, we can identify potential biases in AI systems and hold developers accountable. As Buolamwini notes, “We need to ask questions about the data and the algorithms that underpin AI systems, and we need to hold those who create these systems accountable for their impact.”
AI has the potential to be a transformative force for good in our society, but only if we take proactive steps to ensure that it is developed and used ethically. By removing biases, auditing AI systems, and being discerning and alert as individuals, we can help create a more equitable and just future. As Gebru notes, “AI is not neutral, it’s not unbiased. It’s the responsibility of those who create these systems to ensure that they are developed and used ethically.”
There are several steps that citizens can take to address AI bias during their online interactions. One of the most important steps is to be aware of the potential for bias in AI systems and to question the information presented to them. Citizens can also actively seek out diverse sources of information and engage with a variety of perspectives to avoid the echo chamber effect. Additionally, citizens can report instances of biased AI to relevant authorities or advocacy groups to raise awareness and promote change. Finally, citizens can advocate for greater transparency and accountability in AI development and use, pushing for ethical standards to be enforced to prevent biases and discrimination. By taking these steps, citizens can play an important role in promoting fairness and equity in AI systems and helping to build a more just and equitable society.
AI bias poses a significant challenge for societies worldwide, particularly in the developing world. Addressing these biases is a complex task that requires the involvement of stakeholders from diverse backgrounds, including policymakers, developers, and citizens. Only through collaborative efforts can we build AI systems that are ethical, unbiased, and truly serve the needs of all members of society.
Aman Bandvi
Co-founder Ais Possible
Emerging Technology Council
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