Our daily lives increasingly rely on AI technology, from the facial recognition software that unlocks our smartphones to the smart algorithms that curate our search engine results pages. This “fourth industrial revolution,” as computer scientist and U.S. congressman Ted Lieu describes it, presents a challenge: how can people benefit from AI innovation and be protected from the harmful consequences of AI, from unwanted surveillance to systemic bias? In this op-ed also published in the New York Times, Lieu makes a case for why the U.S. needs a new federal agency to regulate AI.
- Ted Lieu makes an interesting move to introduce his “they say.” He uses ChatGPT, an AI writing software, to compose a paragraph that outlines the concerns people have about artificial intelligence. Why do you think he uses AI writing software to present his “they say”? Do you think this choice makes his argument more persuasive? Why or why not?
- Why does AI “freak” the author out? What examples does he include to show how “unchecked and unregulated” artificial intelligence has caused significant harm to both individuals and our broader society?
- Lieu argues for the creation of a “dedicated agency to regulate A.I.,” a nonpartisan federal agency akin to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Why does he think that an agency is better equipped to regulate AI technology than the conventional legislative process? What do you think? Is AI a problem for government to solve? Why or why not?
- The launch of ChatGPT in November 2022 prompted a range of responses from students, teachers, and writers. Some argued that AI writing makes assignments like the college essay obsolete, while others encouraged teachers and writers to "embrace" AI writing. Read this AI-generated op-ed published by Harvard University’s student newspaper, The Harvard Crimson. Then, talk with a friend or classmate about how AI writing affects students and teachers. How do you think schools and universities should respond to AI writing software?
Comments