In the coming years, artificial intelligence (AI) is likely to bring about significant changes in our lives and the world at large. However, there is a lack of consensus on exactly how these changes will manifest. In a recent interview with the World Economic Forum, renowned computer science professor and AI expert Stuart Russell shed some light on this topic.
Russell explained that there is a stark difference between asking a human to perform a task and assigning that same task to an AI system. When you ask a human to get you a cup of coffee, for example, you don’t mean that this should become their life’s mission, to the exclusion of all else. You certainly don’t mean that they should go to any lengths, even causing harm to others, to fulfill this task. However, when we program AI systems, we often give them a fixed objective, which can lead to unforeseen and potentially harmful consequences.
The problem with assigning fixed objectives to AI systems is that they require us to specify everything in the objective. For instance, if we task an AI with fixing the acidification of the oceans, it might devise a solution that, while efficient, consumes a significant portion of the atmosphere’s oxygen, leading to a slow and unpleasant death for all living beings. To avoid such outcomes, we need to be more careful about specifying objectives and consider all possible side effects.
One way to mitigate these risks is to build AI systems that are aware of their own uncertainty about the true objective. This would lead to AI systems exhibiting behaviors such as asking for permission before taking drastic actions. In this sense, control over the AI system comes from the machine’s uncertainty about what the true objective is. When machines are built with the belief that they have the objective with certainty, that’s when they exhibit psychopathic behavior.
As general-purpose AI becomes more prevalent in the economy, it will inevitably lead to changes. This could result in what has been termed “technological unemployment,” where machines replace human workers. For instance, in the e-commerce industry, warehouses are becoming increasingly automated, potentially eliminating millions of jobs.
While AI can bring about many benefits, over-reliance on it can have detrimental effects. If we hand over the management of our civilization to machines, we risk losing the incentive to understand it ourselves or to teach the next generation how to understand it. This could lead to a break in the chain of teaching and learning that has been ongoing for tens of thousands of generations.
The arrival of general-purpose AI is not a single event but a gradual process. With every advance in AI, the range of tasks it can perform expands. Most experts predict that by the end of the century, we are very likely to have general-purpose AI. However, the exact timeline remains uncertain, with estimates ranging from five to 500 years. Regardless of when it arrives, it’s clear that we need to prepare for the profound changes it will bring.
Organize a classroom debate where you are divided into two groups. One group will argue in favor of fixed objectives for AI systems, while the other will argue for flexible objectives that account for uncertainty. Prepare your arguments based on the concepts discussed in the article and present them to the class.
Work in small groups to analyze a real-world case study where AI was used with a fixed objective that led to unforeseen consequences. Discuss what went wrong and propose how the AI system could have been designed differently to avoid these issues. Present your findings to the class.
Conduct research on how AI is currently impacting different sectors of the economy, such as healthcare, finance, or manufacturing. Create a presentation that highlights both the positive and negative effects of AI in your chosen sector. Be sure to include potential solutions to mitigate any negative impacts.
Participate in a role-playing game where each of you takes on a different role in society (e.g., a factory worker, a business owner, a government official) and discuss how the rise of AI affects your role. This activity will help you understand the broader societal implications of AI and encourage empathy for different perspectives.
Write an essay predicting how AI will evolve over the next 50 years based on the information provided in the article. Consider the potential benefits and risks, and propose strategies for society to prepare for these changes. Share your essays with the class and discuss the different viewpoints.
Artificial Intelligence – The simulation of human intelligence in machines that are programmed to think and learn like humans. – “The development of artificial intelligence has revolutionized various industries, including healthcare and finance.”
Computers – Electronic devices that are capable of receiving, storing, and processing data to perform various tasks. – “Modern computers are faster and more powerful than ever before.”
Robotics – The branch of technology that deals with the design, construction, operation, and application of robots. – “Robotic technology has advanced significantly, enabling robots to perform complex tasks with precision.”
AI Objectives – The goals or aims set for artificial intelligence systems to achieve specific tasks or outcomes. – “AI objectives for autonomous vehicles include improving safety, efficiency, and reducing traffic congestion.”
Fixed Objectives – Specific and predetermined goals or targets that are set and remain unchanged throughout the operation of a system. – “In AI, fixed objectives can sometimes result in unintended consequences if not carefully defined.”
Uncertainty – A state of limited knowledge or information, where outcomes or events are unpredictable or not fully known. – “In complex decision-making scenarios, AI systems often have to deal with uncertainty.”
Economy – The system by which goods and services are produced, distributed, and consumed in a country or region. – “The global economy is heavily influenced by technological advancements, including the rise of AI.”
Technological Unemployment – The loss of jobs caused by technological advancements, particularly automation and artificial intelligence. – “As AI continues to advance, concerns about technological unemployment are growing.”
Over-reliance – An excessive or disproportionate dependence on something or someone. – “Over-reliance on AI systems without proper human oversight can lead to unintended consequences.”
Future of AI – The potential or predicted developments and advancements that are expected to occur in the field of artificial intelligence. – “The future of AI holds immense possibilities, from enhancing healthcare to transforming transportation.”
