Defining Artificial Intelligence: What falls under the AI umbrella?
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a broad term that encompasses various types of technology, according to Lee Tiedrich, a faculty fellow in law and responsible technology in the Duke Initiative for Science & Society at Duke University. She explains that AI is an umbrella term that covers a range of different technologies. With the rapid growth of the AI industry, the term is often used as a buzzword in emerging technologies. However, Tiedrich also warns that not everything being marketed as AI qualifies as true artificial intelligence.
AI Industry Growth: The explosion of artificial intelligence
The AI industry has experienced explosive growth, particularly over the past year. This growth can be attributed to the increasing adoption of AI technologies across various sectors. From machine learning algorithms to natural language processing, AI is being integrated into everyday products and services. This widespread integration has fueled the hype surrounding AI and led to its popularization as a buzzword. However, it is important to distinguish between true AI and technologies that may simply rely on calculation based on set rules.
Distinguishing AI from Misinformation: What truly counts as AI?
According to Tiedrich, any technology that solely relies on calculation based on set rules without inferences or speculation should not be considered AI. True AI involves more than just simple calculations; it includes the ability to make predictions, recommendations, or decisions that influence real or virtual environments. For instance, chatbots like ChatGPTs and facial recognition technology that analyzes and identifies individuals are examples of AI that people can readily relate to. These technologies go beyond basic calculations and involve complex algorithms and models to achieve human-like capabilities.
The Biden Administration’s Definition of Artificial Intelligence
The Biden Administration’s executive order on developing AI safely and responsibly includes a specific definition of AI. According to the order, AI is defined as a machine-based system that can make predictions, recommendations, or decisions that influence real or virtual environments, based on a given set of human-defined objectives. Additionally, AI systems use both machine- and human-based inputs, perceive environments, abstract perceptions into models through analysis, and formulate options for information or action through model inference. This definition provides a clear framework for understanding what falls under the scope of AI.
The Evolution of AI: How definitions and regulations will change
As AI continues to evolve, so will the definitions and regulations surrounding it. Tiedrich believes that the standards of AI will evolve quickly to keep pace with technological advancements. As new AI technologies emerge, it will be crucial to update definitions and regulations accordingly to ensure the responsible and safe development and use of AI. With the rapid growth and potential of AI, it is necessary to stay vigilant and adapt regulations to address the ethical and societal implications of AI technology.
In conclusion, artificial intelligence is a broad term that encompasses various technologies. The AI industry has experienced significant growth, leading to the popularization of AI as a buzzword in emerging technologies. However, it is important to distinguish between true AI and technologies that solely rely on calculations based on set rules. The Biden Administration’s executive order provides a specific definition of AI, setting the stage for responsible and safe development and use of AI. As AI continues to evolve, the definitions and regulations will need to adapt to keep pace with technological advancements.
Analyst comment
Positive news: The AI industry has experienced explosive growth and is being integrated into everyday products and services. The Biden Administration’s executive order provides a clear framework for understanding AI and promoting responsible development and use. The evolution of AI will lead to updated definitions and regulations to address ethical and societal implications.
Analyst’s prediction: The AI market will continue to expand rapidly as more sectors adopt AI technologies. Definitions and regulations will be revised to keep up with technological advancements and ensure responsible development and use of AI.
