How forming an AI ethics committee will educate and engage your teams and customers about ethical dilemmas artificial intelligence can raise.
Artificial intelligence (AI) may still feel a bit futuristic to many, but the average consumer would be surprised at where AI can be found. It’s no longer a science fiction concept confined to Hollywood and feature movies or top-secret technology only found in computer science labs at the Googles and Metas of the world—quite the contrary. Today, AI is not only behind many of our online shopping and social media recommendations, customer service inquiries and loan approvals, but it’s also actively creating music, winning art contests and beating humans in games that have existed for thousands of years.
Due to this growing awareness gap surrounding AI’s expansive capabilities, a critical first step for any organization or business that uses or provides it should be forming an AI ethics committee. This committee would be tasked with two major initiatives: engagement and education.
The ethics committee would not only prevent malpractice and unethical applications of AI as it’s used and implemented. It would also work closely with regulators to set realistic parameters and formulate rules that proactively protect individuals from potential pitfalls and biases. Further, it would educate consumers and allow them to view AI through a neutral lens backed by critical thinking. Users should understand that AI can change how we live and work and can also perpetuate bias and discriminatory practices that have plagued humanity for centuries.
Leading institutions working with AI are probably the most aware of its potential to positively change the world, as well as to cause harm. Some may be more seasoned than others in the space, but internal oversight is important for organizations of all sizes and with leadership of varying experience.
