The Bunker – News without the nonsense Labour and A.I. – Does Starmer know what he’s on about?
Jul 17, 2025
In this insightful discussion, Professor Kate Devlin, Chair-Director of the Digital Futures Institute, unpacks the intricate landscape of AI. She explores whether Starmer's faith in AI can deliver solutions or if it's overhyped. Topics include AI's success in healthcare, misconceptions about job displacement, and the risks of relying on AI for emotional support. Devlin warns against misplacing trust in machines, advocating for a balanced perspective on technology's role in society.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
AI's Limits and Human Cost
- AI is revolutionary but not a fix for every problem and true general intelligence remains far away.
- AI requires human effort behind the scenes and isn't a value-neutral magic solution against labor.
The Responsibility Myth
- Politicians' oversimplification of AI as value-neutral technology is irresponsible.
- AI's risks include sustainability issues, job losses, and hidden labor, not just existential threats.
Unclear AI Training Plans
- UK's AI training promise lacks clarity and mostly uses big tech's content.
- Quick governmental moves prioritize economic growth over realistic and inclusive AI skill development.