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What is Centring the Public Interest in AI?
29 April 2022
Holistic AI deep examines the need for effective governance of algorithmic systems amidst a rising social concern over AI's future.
In recent years, the world has witnessed a remarkable surge in the development and utilization of algorithmic systems. However, this rapid advancement has given rise to an escalating awareness of the imperative need for appropriate governance of these systems. Fuelled by high-profile incidents resulting in harm, there has been a growing social concern about the future of artificial intelligence (AI). This concern has sparked discussions, proposals, and actions aimed at shaping policies, establishing standards, and implementing regulatory measures.
Around the globe, various jurisdictions are actively engaging in regulatory activities and signalling their intent to address AI-related challenges. These efforts encompass the broad spectrum of AI applications, including concerns related to risks and privacy. Additionally, they extend to sector-specific applications, such as AI's impact on fields like education, finance, and healthcare.
In the realm of AI regulation, the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom (UK) have adopted distinct strategies. The EU embraces a comprehensive, horizontal approach, addressing AI across a broad spectrum. In contrast, the UK takes a sector-specific, vertical approach, tailoring regulations to individual industries employing AI. One prominent issue that emerges from this comparison is the absence of a unified framework for defining the "public interest" within the AI context. This lack of clarity has the potential to lead to varying interpretations among stakeholders, raising concerns about consistency in regulation.
Efforts to address the public interest and establish a robust regulatory framework hinge on defining the perspective from which risks are assessed and understanding the motivations behind AI development. In this context, stakeholders, including small and medium-sized enterprises as well as tech giants, are under scrutiny.
In summary, as we navigate the complex terrain of AI regulation and its implications for the public interest, it becomes increasingly crucial to gain a deeper understanding of these multifaceted issues. For those seeking comprehensive insights into what truly centres the public interest around AI, we encourage you to explore our journal article produced in collaboration with Holistic AI, ‘What is Centring the Public Interest in AI?’, which is available here:
