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Introducing Stephen Cave and the Cambridge University Institute
Stephen Cave, a former senior diplomat with a deep understanding of the unintended consequences of well-intentioned actions, is set to head a new institute at Cambridge University. This institute aims to explore the multifaceted aspects of artificial intelligence (AI), shedding light on both the intellectual perils and the positive applications of this rapidly advancing field
Recognizing the Real Dangers of AI
Cave acknowledges that while fears of AI leading to human extinction or the collapse of civilization may be exaggerated, it does not negate the potential harm that AI can cause to society if not approached with caution. The Cambridge institute seeks to identify these dangers and ensure that adequate measures are taken to mitigate them.
Perils to Address: Unemployment, Disinformation, Data Hoarding, and More
The potential risks associated with AI include widespread unemployment as machines take over various job sectors, the spread of disinformation, the illicit hoarding of personal data, the use of facial recognition software for tracking protesters, and the negative influence of AI chatbots. These examples highlight the disruptive potential of AI, calling for careful management and ethical considerations.
Power Imbalance and Misuse of AI
The concentration of power in the hands of a few major corporations, who control the development and deployment of AI, raises concerns about its potential misuse. Eleanor Drage, a researcher within the institute, emphasizes the importance of preventing such misuse and ensuring that AI benefits humanity rather than being wielded for nefarious purposes.
The Amalgamation of Three University Establishments
The new Cambridge Institute for Technology and Humanity brings together three university establishments: the Leverhulme Centre for the Future of Intelligence, the Centre for the Study of Existential Risk, and the Centre for Human Inspired Artificial Intelligence. This interdisciplinary institute will leverage a diverse range of talents, from writers and philosophers to computer scientists and artists, to address the threats and opportunities presented by AI.
The Quest for Balance and Inclusivity
The institute also aims to address the gender imbalance in the AI industry, where only 22% of professionals are women. Depictions in media, such as the portrayal of AI scientists as male visionaries, further perpetuate this inequality. The Cambridge institute recognizes the importance of inclusivity and seeks to promote diversity in the field of AI.
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