AI and algorithms are and will be used heavily by the tech industry and our society. It is more crucial than ever to monitor the accuracy of AI and the ethical obligations which come with assuring that information is correct, should be distributed, and the ethical consequences of having ‘algorithms’ replacing ‘human ethics and intellect.’ Thus, the following report from Financial Times, and what we have been reading a lot about, worries me enormously:

“… Microsoft, Meta, Google, Amazon, and Twitter are among the companies that have cut members of their “responsible AI teams,” who advise on the safety of consumer products that use artificial intelligence.”

These tech companies have the largest communities of users, benefit greatly financially, and (especially in the case of Google, Meta, Amazon, and Twitter) collect massive amounts of consumer information, using AI in all areas. With the use of AI comes the responsibility to use AI properly/mindfully, use it ethically, and be aware of the long-term consequences for the end users and society. Social networks in particular, which collect massive amounts of personal information and are the nexus of misinformation and societal issues, should be legally required to not just benefit from using AI, but to also assure that the ethics of AI are monitored.

We see this matter fiercely fought in European courts and the people’s rights are protected. In the US, we have a far more relaxed attitude about company responsibilities with respect to AI. In a society driven by convenience, speed, and efficiency, sometimes we forget what makes systems so fast. Massive automation has consequences and has to be monitored. Let’s benefit from the advances in technology but be mindful in understanding the long-term ramifications. Let’s make sure the tech giants become and remain responsible with respect to AI! What do you think?

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