Artificial Intelligence (AI), a concept first introduced in the 1950s by computer scientist John McCarthy, aims to create intelligent machines. With the rise of generative AI, particularly Large Language Models, AI has moved firmly into the mainstream.
One potential problem with AI is its inherent bias, stemming from biases within the datasets used to train AI models. This raises an important question: can AI help us to recognise the biases present in our society?
What is AI Bias
Bias in Artificial Intelligence (AI) often stems from biases present in the data used to train these systems. Modern AI, including Large Language Models like Gemini, ChatGPT, and Claude, relies on massive datasets derived from human sources.
However, bias can also originate in the algorithms that power AI. Social media filters provide an example of this type of bias. To keep users engaged, social media platforms employ filters that, while potentially leading to ‘doom scrolling’, can also inadvertently reinforce existing biases by limiting exposure to diverse perspectives
AI as a Mirror to Humanity
In The Sentient Machine, Amir Husain argues that, prior to the emergence of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), AI will serve as a mirror to humanity, prompting us to confront fundamental questions that philosophy has explored for millennia:
- What is uniquely human?
- What we want to become in the age of AGI?
- Do all of our complex goals come from our biological needs?
I believe that current Large Language Models are now sophisticated enough to reflect aspects of what it means to be human.
AI bias reflects our own prejudices. While some of these biases are arguably historical, can we truly say that they all belong to the past?
The root of the problem: Societal Bias
If AI truly acts as a mirror to humanity, we cannot simply dismiss AI bias as a technical problem. The bias is present because it is embedded within society itself. At best, AI reflects biases that once existed in human society.
However, my concern is that this understanding will be used as an excuse to avoid critically examining our society.
While I don’t typically discuss politics on my blog, I feel compelled to address this issue. The rise of right-wing populism in many European democracies is, at least in part, a consequence of these same societal biases.
A similar argument could be made regarding political correctness and the desire for positive discrimination.
Conclusion
Politicians must engage in open and honest discussions with the public about reducing bias in our society, carefully considering which biases must be eradicated and which, if any, we are willing to accept, even temporarily.
We, as citizens, must actively participate in change and critically evaluate the information presented by politicians and the media, recognising that their interests may not align with our own.
I will not advise you on how to vote. Instead, I aim to encourage critical thinking and share my insights to help you make informed decisions.
I welcome your thoughts on bias in AI and whether you see it as a reflection of our shared humanity.
Further reading
- Introductory guide to Large Language Model. You can learn more about Large Language Models in our guide written for beginners.
- Dumbing Down or Wising Up How Will Generative AI Change the Way We Think? A reference to a source for at least one idea mentioned in this blog post
- The Sentient Machine by Amir Husain: Source material for the idea of AI acting as a mirror on humanity.
- The Sentient Machine: Key Takeaways on AI, Humanity, and Our Future. My key takeaways from the sentient machine including the concept of AI being a mirror on humanity.
- Introductory Guide to Artificial General Intelligence. Term mentioned in this blog post. This introductory guide will explain what Artificial General Intelligence is.