Humanity Must Gain Control Over AI
Commentary
The age-old advice to “begin with the end in mind” holds true, especially in the realm of new technology.
Take, for example, the invention of the lightbulb and the subsequent electrification of society. This technology had a clear purpose – to illuminate a world that was plunged into darkness after sunset.
British inventor Joseph Swan, an early pioneer of electric light, remarked, “The days of my youth extend backward to the dark ages. Common people, lacking indoor lighting, retired early after sunset.” Swan’s creation paved the way for Thomas Edison’s successful lightbulb, sparking a technological revolution with widespread societal benefits, albeit at the expense of candle makers.
Contrastingly, the current technological revolution involving artificial intelligence (AI) lacks a clear direction. As we rush to integrate AI into various aspects of our economy, the destination remains unknown.
Even key figures in the AI field, such as Sam Altman, express uncertainty about the future. The potential threats posed by AI loom large, beyond concerns of deepfake videos and self-driving cars.
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The ethical dilemmas surrounding AI are complex, as machines grow smarter. Ensuring that AI reflects human values is paramount, yet challenging.
There is a debate about whether AI can surpass human moral frameworks. If so, who will guide machines to be morally superior?
While AI development continues to surge, ethical considerations often take a backseat. Establishing a regulatory framework akin to professional engineering standards could provide oversight.
Ultimately, society must grapple with its own morality before imparting values to AI.
Aligning human values before instilling them in machines is crucial in navigating the AI revolution.
Views expressed in this article are opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
