Ahead of the Bletchley Park AI summit in November, humanists, AI experts, and faith groups urged that governments come together to create a human rights-based legal framework to regulate the safety and accountable usage for frontier AI technologies, which are set to completely transform vast areas of human life and the global economy in the coming years.
A letter co-written by Humanists UK patron Dr Susie Alegre to Science Minister Michelle Donelan made six key recommendations ahead of the summit to ensure a safe future that takes into account the ethical and human rights implications of such revolutionary technology. The recommendations include ensuring that progress in AI is accountable, its ownership is democratised and not limited to a small number of firms, addressing the current harms of AI technology, and including diverse voices in conversations about AI and its possible harms. You can read the full letter here.
At Humanists UK we are glad to see important dialogue, surrounding the ethical challenges that AI may cause, and believe it is extremely important to have humanist views represented. As humanists we should always be taking a proactive interest in new developments and make sure that the benefits of AI are realised equitably, productively, and positively.
Director of Policy and Public Affairs, Kathy Riddick said:
‘As AI poses some of the most important ethical and existential questions of our time, it’s vital that humanists are actively engaged in this developing space. AI has enormous potential, but it is imperative that it is not chased recklessly without proper consideration for the ethical impacts and questions that will arise from its use. Humanist perspectives on the development of AI are essential in making sure it is developed and utilised in ways that respect human values, promote equality, and safeguards our collective well-being.’
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Further reading: ‘The time has come: humanists must define the values that will underpin our AI future’
For further comment or information, media should contact Humanists UK Director of Public Affairs and Policy Kathy Riddick at press@humanists.uk or phone 020 3675 0959.
Humanists UK is the national charity working on behalf of non-religious people. Powered by 110,000 members and supporters, we advance free thinking and promote humanism to create a tolerant society where rational thinking and kindness prevail. We provide ceremonies, pastoral care, education, and support services benefitting over a million people every year and our campaigns advance humanist thinking on ethical issues, human rights, and equal treatment for all.