EP 164 : The Wild West of AI Futures - Richard Yonck
Aug 27, 2023
auto_awesome
Richard Yonck, AI Futures surveyor, surveys the Wild West of AI Futures including digital assistants, job losses, human hybrid working, ethics, and social media. Topics covered: history and development of AI, rapid advancements in AI technology, potential impact of digital assistants, challenges of managing AI systems in social media, potential job losses from AI advancements, 'AI for good' movement.
The rapid progress of AI has raised ethical concerns including bias, intellectual property issues, and harmful applications.
Navigating the overwhelming AI landscape requires cautious vetting to avoid scams or unreliable technologies.
Addressing biases in AI and the manipulation of social media algorithms requires technological advancements, legislation, and responsible use of data.
Deep dives
AI's Evolution and Ethical Considerations
AI has been around for 75 years, but recent advancements in neural networks and trained transformers have led to rapid progress. However, the quick development has also created ethical concerns, including bias, intellectual property issues, and the potential for harmful AI applications. As AI continues to shape various aspects of society, it is crucial to consider the implications on our future and the need for responsible development and usage.
Navigating the Complexities of AI
The AI landscape can be overwhelming, with the rapid emergence of new technologies and the Wild West-like environment. With so much hype, it becomes important to discern what to pay attention to and what to ignore. While AI has the potential for great advancements, including digital assistants and hybrid human-machine partnerships, it is essential to approach this realm with caution and undertake proper vetting to avoid falling for scams or investing in unreliable technologies.
Addressing Bias and the Role of Social Media
Bias is an inherent issue in AI, as it reflects the biases present in the data it learns from. The incorporation of social biases and the misrepresentation of diverse perspectives can lead to skewed outputs and negative consequences. The manipulation of social media algorithms for attention and engagement also presents challenges, with detrimental effects on mental health and political manipulation. Addressing these concerns requires a combination of technological advancements, legislation, and responsible use of data.
The Impact of AI on Jobs and the Importance of Lifelong Learning
The fear of job loss due to AI advancements is a valid concern. While new technologies often create new jobs, rapid changes and lack of proper skills alignment can hinder people from transitioning into new roles. To mitigate this, a transformation of education and economic systems is necessary, emphasizing lifelong learning and a collaborative approach where humans and machines work together. Balancing economic priorities and job quality is crucial to avoid negative impacts on individuals and the overall economy.
Managing Deep Fakes and Embracing Optimism
The rise of deep fakes and generative AI presents challenges in terms of misinformation, privacy breaches, and potential harm. To combat this, a multi-faceted approach is required, involving technology, legislation, and changes in internet infrastructure. While there are concerns, embracing optimism is important. Historical patterns show that as new technologies become integrated into society, they eventually become normalized. With a focus on responsible development and continuous improvement, there is hope for a better future.
A return interview with Richard Yonck where he surveys what he calls the Wild West of AI Futures including digital assistants, job losses, human hybrid working, ethics and social media.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
