What are the Implications of Artificial Intelligence?

With the advancement in technology, life has become way simpler than it earlier used to be. On the technological front, Artificial intelligence has served to be no less than a savior. Right from controlling the traffic on roads, detecting frauds to assisting the doctors and surgeons in numerous medical procedures, AI has paved the way for all of this. Needless to say, how AI can be put into use to reduce the workload and to address the various issues of the organization is of utmost importance. However, what cannot be overlooked is having a fair idea about the political, social and ethical implications of artificial intelligence.

Now that AI has integrated into our lives like never before, it is high time that we ensure that the technology is employed ethically and that our politics remain democratic. Ensuring that our policies are well informed is equally important as well.

With both, Artificial intelligence and machine learning continue to dominate the world of technology, we have seen massive transformations over the years. Well, not just that. The possibility of this trend to continue for the years to come is high, without a doubt.  Considering the fact that these powerful new technologies like AI and machine learning stand a chance of both, improving as well as disrupting human lives, these transformations will have a deep ethical impact. Artificial intelligence offers us, in amplified form, everything that humanity already is, both good and evil. It is therefore important that we pay utmost importance pertaining to how these transitions are made.

Talking about AI ethics, it is worth noting that it has turned a little problematic now. A few key reasons identified in this aspect are –

1. Insane increase in the size of data sets
2. Huge increase in computing power
3. Drastic improvement in Machine learning algorithms and advanced human talent to write them.

When it comes to AI, one of the most commonly faced questions is whether the AI systems would work as they are promised or will they fail? Issues don't arise when the AI systems work as promised. But what if they fail? On failing, what would be the results of those failures? Is it possible to survive without them if these systems fail? Though paying significant attention to this is important, what is even more important is whether AI stands true to its main purpose – to help people lead longer, more flourishing, more fulfilling lives. The fact that there are innumerable instances where AI has left a remarkable positive impact in society makes us believe how good of a technology it is.

On the flip side, there are cases where a perfectly well functioning technology, such as a nuclear weapon, can, when put to its intended use, cause immense evil. What can be concluded from here is that Artificial intelligence can be used maliciously, similar to how human intelligence can be used. So what could be the conclusion then? Well, the technology itself is neutral: only the way we decide to use it in society determines whether it has good or bad effects.