Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1514336
12 11.01.2024 Alexiei Dingli Prof Alexiei Dingli is a Professor of AI at the University of Malta and has been conducting research and working in the field of AI for more than two decades, assisting different companies to implement AI solutions. He forms part of the Malta.AI task-force, set up by the Maltese government, aimed at making Malta one of the top AI countries in the world NEWS Forging a new alliance between man and machines I n the world of technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is like a fast-moving train, bringing changes and opportu- nities at every stop. ink of AI not as a futuristic fantasy but as a real-world tool getting smarter every day. It's not about robots taking over; it's about machines helping us do things better. One big worry people have about AI is that it might want to boss us around. It is understand- able that people might have these concerns. is perception is shaped by popular culture, particularly Hollywood movies like "e Terminator", where AI is often portrayed as a threat to humanity. In movies, AI is typ- ically depicted as gaining con- sciousness, rebelling against its creators, and seeking to domi- nate or eradicate humans. ese dramatic portrayals can shape our perceptions and fears about real-world AI. However, it's im- portant to note that real-world AI fundamentally differs from its Hollywood depictions. Current AI technologies, in- cluding machine learning and natural language processing, are tools designed to perform spe- cific tasks, such as recognising images or translating languages. ey don't have consciousness, desires, or the ability to make independent decisions outside their programming. Also, being smart doesn't mean they want to be in charge. Just like among us humans, the cleverest aren't always the ones seeking pow- er. Most AI systems are pro- grammed to help, not to dom- inate. ey're made to be our partners, not our bosses. Imagine AI as a teammate, not a rival. We've all seen in our work how diverse teams thrive when everyone brings some- thing unique to the table. AI can be that smart team member who has a lot of answers and can handle tasks quickly, leaving us free to focus on things that need a human touch – like creativity and personal interactions. As social creatures, humans naturally form groups and en- gage in competition. However, in AI, we have the opportunity to shape a different narrative. We can program these systems to collaborate, align with our goals and work alongside us rather than in opposition. is cooperative approach is crucial to leveraging AI's potential for societal benefit. e democratisation of AI is critical in preventing new forms of inequality. If AI technology becomes the domain of only a few, we risk creating a significant divide in job security, financial stability, and societal influence. One primary concern is the emergence of a 'knowledge gap'. ose with access to and com- mand of AI could gain a sub- stantial advantage over those without, leading to disparities in various sectors, including job displacement due to automa- tion and financial imbalances in AI-enhanced industries. Furthermore, a homogeneous approach to AI development could result in biased systems that fail to consider all users' diverse needs and perspectives. is lack of diversity perpetuates social inequalities and under- mines AI applications' fairness and inclusivity. To counter these risks, pro- moting open access to AI is essential. Encouraging a wide range of individuals to contrib- ute to AI's development and use can help ensure its widespread and equitable benefits. is ef- fort is akin to a 'digital literacy' initiative. Much like how reading and writing transformed from specialised skills to universal necessities, understanding and utilising AI should become an ordinary skill to avoid a new type of inequality. By fostering an in- clusive AI landscape, we can en- sure that AI becomes a tool for collective advancement rather than a source of division. e importance of culturally aware and respectful AI cannot be overstated in today's inter- connected world. Our global vil- lage is a rich mosaic of cultures with unique traditions, values, and perspectives. AI, as an inte- gral part of this world, must be designed to understand and re- spect this cultural diversity. Just as we enjoy the variety offered by global cuisines and the universal language of music, AI should be developed to appreciate and reflect the vast array of human experiences. It's not just about programming an AI system to translate languages or recognise different faces; it's about embed- ding cultural intelligence into the very fabric of AI. is means AI systems should be able to navi- gate the nuances of cultural con- texts, understand diverse societal norms, and interact in culturally appropriate ways. e challenge lies in collecting and incorporat- ing this vast spectrum of cultural data respectfully and ethically. AI developers must work closely with cultural experts, anthropol- ogists, and sociologists to gather deep insights and understand- ings. Moreover, ensuring that AI development teams are diverse and inclusive is vital in achiev- ing this goal. Teams with varied backgrounds bring different per- spectives, helping to create AI systems that are not only techni- cally proficient but also cultural- ly competent. As we gaze into the future, im- agine AI becoming as common in our lives as smartphones are today. ink of it as having a su- per-smart helper always ready to lend a hand, whether finding information, offering advice, or helping make tough decisions. is future isn't something to be afraid of; it's an exciting pros- pect. As we enter this new era, we must approach AI with opti- mism and purpose. We have the opportunity to guide its develop- ment so it benefits everyone, no matter where they are. is jour- ney with AI isn't just about cre- ating more intelligent machines; it's about building an intelligent, connected world for all of us. Let's embrace this journey, filled with potential and promise, and look forward to a future where technology and humanity unite to create something unique.