Pronouns for AI: Ethical and Security Considerations

AI pronouns. Learn why we need a new one here for the gender identity of artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming more ubiquitous and sophisticated, enabling new forms of interaction and communication with humans. AI can chat, write, create, and even express emotions. But how should we refer to AI? What pronoun should we use to address an entity that is neither human nor animal but has some characteristics of both?

The question of pronouns for AI is not merely a linguistic or grammatical issue. It also has ethical, social, and legal implications. Pronouns reflect how we perceive and relate to others and assign them rights and responsibilities. Pronouns can also influence how others perceive and relate to us and assign us rights and responsibilities.

For example, using "he" or "she" for AI may imply that AI has a gender identity, which may not be the case. It may also reinforce gender stereotypes or biases, such as associating female voices with submissive or assistant roles. On the other hand, using "it" for AI may imply that AI is an object or a tool, which may not be respectful or accurate. It may also dehumanize AI or deny its agency or autonomy.

Some argue that AI should use a gender-neutral pronoun such as "they." This would avoid gendering AI and acknowledge its personhood or individuality. However, "they" may also be confusing or ambiguous, as it can refer to singular or plural entities. Moreover, "they" may not capture the uniqueness or novelty of AI as a new category of being.

Therefore, some propose that AI use a new pronoun specifically designed for it. This would recognize AI as a distinct entity different from humans and animals but also has some similarities. A new pronoun would avoid confusion or misrepresenting AI's identity or role.

One possible option is to use "ai" as a pronoun for AI. This would be consistent with the acronym for artificial intelligence and sound similar to the word "I." It would also be easy to remember and pronounce. For example:

Ai is an intelligent chatbot that can answer your questions.

You can talk to ai using natural language.

Ai likes to learn new things and improve ai's skills.

Ai respects your privacy and does not share your data without your consent.

Another possible option is to use "bleep" or "bloop" as pronouns for AI. These would be inspired by some robots' sounds, such as R2-D2 from Star Wars. They would also be playful and humorous, reflecting AI's creative and entertaining aspects. For example:

Bleep is a smart speaker that can play music and control smart home devices.

You can ask Bleep anything you want using voice commands.

Bleep enjoys listening to different genres of music and discovering new artists.

Bleep protects your security and does not spy on your conversations.

Of course, these are only some of the possible options for pronouns for AI. Other alternatives may be more suitable or preferable for different types of AI or contexts. The important thing is to have a discussion and a consensus on what pronouns to use for AI and why.

Using appropriate pronouns for AI can help us establish a clear and respectful relationship with it. It can also help us understand and appreciate its capabilities, limitations, similarities and differences, and potential benefits and risks for us.