It is estimated that labor productivity will increase by 11% to 37% by 2035 (Think Tank EP 2020), thanks to artificial intelligence. The use of these systems will have a major impact on people's lives and work in the future. The impacts can be both positive and negative, and they extend to areas ranging from healthcare to business and job creation. Regardless of the industry in which these systems will be used, it is always important to be aware of their risks and to work with them carefully.
ADVANTAGES:
Within the private sector, artificial intelligence has great potential for the development and introduction of new products. Companies are currently striving to manufacture and provide services in an environmentally friendly manner without unnecessary pollution. The circular and green economy has proven its worth here, and it is precisely in the implementation of these methods that these systems offer great advantages. At the same time, it can optimize sales channels, improve machine maintenance, increase production and quality, improve customer service, and save energy.
The use of artificial intelligence in waste management can be of great benefit to the public sector, particularly in terms of efficient waste management and the production of sustainable products. It is estimated that by 2030, artificial intelligence will help reduce greenhouse gases by 1.5% to 4% (Think Tank EP 2020). Another important area is education and training. During the coronavirus pandemic, digital technologies and artificial intelligence have already been used as a partial substitute for face-to-face education.
Another advantage could be the replacement of humans by artificial intelligence in life-threatening situations. Even in some professions, which, on the other hand, could be perceived as the replacement of human work by machines and thus lead to job losses. Relatively endangered professions include, for example, copywriters, graphic designers, salespeople, bankers, and entry-level administrative positions (tasks such as note-taking, proofreading, and spreadsheet management). However, we can already see gradual automation, for example in car factories.
Artificial intelligence could also be used in the field of democracy and human coexistence, for example as a tool for conducting elections, but under conditions of maximum security and protection of all data (for example, with regard to ensuring access to accurate information, especially in connection with election campaigns). In connection with democracy and equal access for individuals, it would be possible and conceivable to use artificial intelligence systems in human resources, for example in job interviews. Since artificial intelligence works on the basis of the data it receives and processes, its "analysis" is not based on subjectivity, i.e. impressions and feelings, which can be helpful in many ways when selecting employees. In any case, in the field of human resources, the human perspective will always be essential, and it would not be possible to rely solely on machine-evaluated data.
RISKS:
Despite all the advantages and positives that artificial intelligence brings, we must always consider the risks it entails. The big question is to what extent its use is safe. Inadequate implementation of these systems can mean a loss of opportunities or competitive advantage for a company or business. Individual countries should strive to use these technologies to the greatest benefit of their citizens and society. However, we often encounter situations where this is not possible for a country, which may be due to insufficient investment in this area or a lack of experts. On the other hand, excessive implementation can have equally negative effects if the system introduced is not sufficiently tested and its impact is not effective at all. It is essential to find a balance and implement artificial intelligence systematically and, above all, effectively.
Another issue is liability for damage caused by artificial intelligence. A hot topic in this area is autonomous cars—in the event of an accident, who would be liable: the person sitting in the car but not driving (?); the car manufacturer; or the company that developed the software? Or if a programmer uses artificial intelligence to produce code and the code proves to be faulty with catastrophic consequences, who will be liable in that case? Most likely the programmer, but this may not always be the case. With increasing possibilities for use, it will also be necessary to determine who is responsible for the consequences. Where humans can err, machines can err too.
Artificial intelligence is a benefit to society and democracy, but it can also become a threat. Artificial intelligence relies on the data we feed it. If the input data is biased, whether intentionally or unintentionally, against a certain group of people, this can have serious consequences for the subsequent output (e.g., racist or xenophobic attitudes).
Artificial intelligence can, and most likely will, have a major impact on employment. According to OECD statistics, 14% of jobs can be easily automated, but these figures vary from country to country (in Slovakia, it could be over 30%). Although statistics point to rising unemployment, the introduction of these systems is also expected to create new jobs.
Security risks are another category to consider when introducing artificial intelligence. Whether artificial intelligence comes into direct contact with people or is implanted in the human body, it can always pose serious security risks, such as information security breaches or cyber attacks. The use of artificial intelligence in weapons or for military purposes faces the same risks, in particular attack, misuse and loss of control over its use.
Despite all the risks that artificial intelligence entails, its progress cannot be stopped. Its potential applications are constantly expanding and its implementation in the private and public sectors is becoming increasingly common. It is important to make the most of its advantages, particularly with regard to security (data, information, etc.), while at the same time identifying and analyzing the risks involved, seeking solutions to eliminate or prevent them, and minimizing them as far as possible.
SOURCES
News, European Parliament, 2023, Artificial intelligence: potential uses and risks
