The last panel of the Summer University was devoted to the role of international organizations in regulating disruptive technologies, primarily in military affairs. During the previous afternoon this session was prepared by a very detailed introduction to one of the most dangerous applications of artificial intelligence in warfare, the killer robots. The discussion of the afternoon of day 4 revolved around the possibilites to control the autonomous decisions of these robots based on sophisticated algorithms. The last panel was putting this issue into a broader context.
Cordel Green, attorney at law from Jamaica, spoke about the limits and possibilities of legal regulations of AI based applications. He was followed by David Daoiu based in Italy with an extemely broad horizon in all aspects of this field. He stressed that the extremely fast pace of developing increasingly autonomous AI applications can not be stopped, he referred to a number of AI based programs in all fields of life including artistic activities and elaborated on the possibilities of implementing ethical AI with the help of ’white hackers’! Dalma Bíró, who for decades has been involved in successful campaigns for peacebuilding in various parts of the world, explained how in the times of digital dehumanization international institutions can be involved in preparing international legislation to limit the autonomy of of weapon systems. Illés Katona, a second year student of law in Budapest, referred to some philosophical aspects of how regulated innovation can serve the common good. The most optimistic views were aired by the iASK researcher, László Karvalics who argued that social, economic, politicval tools can keep control over algorithmic violence. The main message of the session was that although the technological development of AI can hardly be slowed down, local, regional and international tools can help us with facing these threats and ways and means can be found for their control.
Day 5 of 28th International Summer University: Human Agency in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
The panel discussion on human agency in the age of artificial intelligence brought together a diverse group of professionals to explore the profound implications of AI and the urgent need for regulating disruptive technologies. The panelists included David Daou from UNU-EHS, Cordel Green from UNESCO-IFAP, Dalma Bíró and Illés Katona from the Campaign to Stop Killer Robots, and László Karvalics and Ivana Stepanovic from iASK. The panel discussion illuminated the tangible and intangible costs of artificial intelligence as well as the importance of protecting human rights and freedoms in light of exponential advancements of AI underpinned technologies. They talked about ethical considerations in AI development, the possible regulatory measures, and the necessity of global cooperation. It was concluded that the stakeholders across the globe should work together to ensure the responsible and sustainable development of AI in support of humanity’s best interests.
Preserving Human Agency and Ethical Considerations
The discussion was opened by the speech of Cordel Green, Vice-Chairman of the international bureau for UNESCO’s Information For All Programme (IFAP) and chairman of the UNESCO-IFAP Working Group on Information Accessibility. He highlighted the importance of protecting the freedom of thinking or cognitive liberty and privacy in the face of increasing reliance on AI. He emphasized the need for establishing digital literacy as a fundamental right, enabling individuals to navigate the AI-driven world. Green advocated for humane realism in the development and deployment of AI technologies, acknowledging the potential dangers of information feudalism and asserting that better technology choices can be made to promote societal well-being.
Hidden Costs of AI
David Daou, physicist and research manager for climate risk modelling at the United Nations University’s Institute for Environment and Human Security talked about the detriments of artificial intelligence. He discussed the implications of deep learning, technological advancements, and the potential arrival of artificial superintelligence (ASI) sooner than expected. He raised concerns about incidents of AI abuse, the environmental costs associated with large-scale AI models, and the urgency of effective regulation. Daou also highlighted the inequality in training costs and the need for equitable distribution of knowledge between the global North and South.
Dehumanizing Machines
Dalma Bíró, human rights expert, world-famous activist, and campaign coordinator of the Campaign to Stop Killer Robots, emphasised the problem of dehumanization caused by the reduction of individuals to data points in the digital age. She stressed the importance of establishing red lines, particularly in prohibiting the development and use of autonomous weapons. Bíró announced upcoming initiatives, such as a UN General Assembly meeting in October 2023, aimed at increasing political pressure and engaging stakeholders in addressing the moral implications of AI and advocating for a new treaty against autonomous weapons.
Challenges of Regulating AI
Youth coordinator of the Campaign to Stop Killer Robots campaign, Illés Katona, emphasized the need to define permissible and prohibited uses of AI and privacy standards in a global context. He discussed the competition for AI dominance and the potential “tragedy of the commons” scenario if regulation is not enacted. Katona called for a global authority overseeing AI to restore diplomacy and facilitate collaboration among stakeholders. He emphasized the role of AI stakeholders in addressing the challenges posed by AI to ensure a more equitable and sustainable future.
Dominant Narratives on AI
László Karvalics, a research fellow at iASK, encouraged critical thinking and questioning of dominant narratives surrounding AI. Karvalics highlighted the importance of redistributing wealth in the context of AI-driven societal changes. Additionally, he challenged the addiction narrative associated with technology, promoting a balanced and mindful approach to AI integration. He cautioned against viewing AI as a standalone entity and advocated for machines supporting human abilities rather than replacing humans.