A fresh perspective on artificial intelligence (AI) is advocated in a newly published book co-edited by Catherine Régis and Jean-Louis Denis from Université de Montréal. In this book, experts from various disciplines across a dozen countries advocate for a shift towards a more people-centered approach to AI.
The book argues against the current trend where companies rush to develop new AI technologies without considering their impact on individuals. Instead, the focus should be on tailoring AI to meet the actual needs of people, rather than forcing people to adapt to technology.
Fifty global experts contribute research papers to “Human-Centered AI,” highlighting the risks and opportunities of the prevailing approach. Pierre Larouche, a law professor at UdeM, emphasizes the inadequacy of current legal frameworks in addressing AI-related issues. He suggests that rather than creating entirely new legislation, existing laws should be extended and applied to AI to keep pace with technological advancements.
Benjamin Prud’-homme, a Montreal lawyer affiliated with Mila, echoes Larouche’s sentiment, advocating for a balanced approach between innovation and regulation. He praises the proactive stance of the European Union, exemplified by its forthcoming AI Act, which aims to address AI-related challenges comprehensively.
The book, co-edited by Catherine Regis, Jean-Louis Denis, Maria Luciana Axinite, and Atsuo Kishimoto, brings together experts from diverse fields to explore AI’s impact across various domains, such as agriculture, healthcare, and education. It proposes regulatory frameworks that prioritize human needs and interdisciplinary collaboration to ensure AI’s alignment with societal values.
Shannon Vallor, a philosophy professor at the University of Edinburgh, criticizes the current trend of AI development, particularly generative AI, for prioritizing power over human benefit. Contributors also examine AI’s influence on human behavior, its role in perpetuating marginalization of minorities, and its implications for privacy rights.
In essence, the book advocates for a recalibration of AI development and regulation to prioritize human well-being and inclusivity in technological advancements.
