Is 'Ethical AI' a Fantasy? - TRIP Annual Symposium 2024

This podcast features a panel discussion on whether ‘Ethical AI’ is a fantasy. The panelists, experts in AI and ethics, explore the complexities of the topic and conclude that ‘Ethical AI’ in the sense of AI systems acting as moral agents is not feasible. However, they believe that developing and using AI ethically, through human-driven governance and regulation, is possible and essential for a democratic society.

Ethical AI

• 00:05:52 The panel explores two meanings of ‘Ethical AI’: (1) AI technologies developed and used ethically by humans, and (2) AI systems capable of ethical performance themselves. The first meaning is considered achievable through human responsibility and governance, while the second meaning is deemed a ‘fantasy’ due to the lack of sentience and moral understanding in AI systems.

AI & Democracy

• 00:20:34 The panelists discuss the impact of AI on democracy, highlighting its potential to undermine freedom and justice through surveillance and censorship. They also discuss AI's influence on the knowledge basis of democracy, potentially leading to misinformation and political polarization. The solution involves strengthening democratic institutions, promoting inclusivity, and ensuring democratic legitimacy in AI development.

AI Ethics

• 00:31:04 The panelists agree that ethical AI, conceptually speaking, is not a fantasy if it refers to developing and using AI in accordance with moral principles. However, the panelists acknowledge that in an unjust world, ethical AI may be a fantasy in practice due to human biases and failings.

AI Capabilities

• 00:41:40 The panelists discuss whether AI systems can understand ethics and reason ethically. They acknowledge significant advances in AI's ability to mimic human experience and understand complex intentions. However, the panelists emphasize that AI lacks sentience and moral understanding, which are crucial for genuine ethical performance.

AI & Society

• 00:46:46 The panel discusses the potential for AI to enhance democracy by promoting consensus and providing access to relevant information. They highlight the need for AI to be designed and developed with ethical and democratic values in mind.

AI Safety

• 00:48:12 The panelists address the safety implications of advanced AI systems, known as ‘Frontier AI’. They highlight the potential risks of AI being used to develop bioweapons, cyber weapons, or engage in deception. The panelists emphasize the importance of ongoing research and collaboration to ensure responsible development and deployment of such AI.

AI & Morality

• 01:06:56 The panel explores the limitations of AI in relation to human morality. They highlight the importance of human emotions, experiences, and the capacity for change in shaping ethical behavior. AI, lacking these qualities, cannot fully replicate human moral reasoning and decision-making.

AI & Governance

• 01:14:17 The panel emphasizes the need for effective governance and regulation of AI, both internally within companies and through broader societal mechanisms. They call for a shift in focus from simply controlling AI to controlling the individuals and organizations who design and employ it.

AI & The Future

• 01:49:43 The panelists acknowledge the rapid pace of AI development and the challenges in understanding and regulating it. They discuss the need for a balance between fostering innovation and ensuring responsible deployment of AI, while also considering its impact on human values and society.