Overcoming Information Chaos and Artificial Intelligence
The new Upriver Press book titled Overcoming Information Chaos presents scholarly insights about how artificial intelligence is and could continue to fuel widespread misinformation, disinformation, and propaganda. We are already seeing top-level political leaders using the technology to spread visual lies as a means of swaying public opinion. We hope that everyone will read this vital book.
Today, we would also like to point out a more philosophical problem related to AI and information chaos. The problem is illustrated by a headline in a recent New York Times article about artificial intelligence and how these technologies might affect our lives and work. The interview is excellent, but the newspaper used this unfortunate headline: “Where Is AI Taking Us?”
That headline mistakenly implies that the technology is in charge of us, as if we are enslaved by it. It is a common sentiment: “AI is coming, it could ruin us, and there’s nothing we can do about it.” AI is coming, it could ruin us . . . but it is not true that there’s nothing to be done. That’s a false premise.
A better headline would be: “Where Are Human Beings Taking AI?”
The fact is, we humans are determining the directions and designs of the technology, not the other way around. The outcomes of AI technology are, in fact, determined by the philosophy and ethics of business leaders, lawmakers, voters, and consumers. Collectively, our choices as a society will determine the outcomes of AI.
Many economists, including MIT professor Daron Acemoglu, make this same point. (See our review of his book Power and Progress for more about his views.) Stephanie Hare, in her book Technology Is Not Neutral, also argues that the people who create technology and profit from it always infuse their products with their values and ethics—for better or worse. Product designs and business models reflect human ambitions.
“Technology is more than a tool,” writes Hare, adding that technology always involves organization, procedures, motivations, and mindsets that influence the design process. “When does technology start to challenge our relationship with our bodies, our family and friends, our political processes, and nature? When does it start to change our privacy, civil liberties, human rights, and humanity?” (p. 31).
Hare argues that innovators and business leaders—now more than ever—must be committed to integrating careful ethical thinking with their work. Likewise, citizens and consumers should thoughtfully consider whether technology is ethical or socially beneficial to use, and if not, avoid using it. Hare’s ethical framework comprises six philosophical branches: metaphysics, epistemology, political philosophy, logic, aesthetics, and ethics.
Unfortunately, many people rarely have time or meaningful opportunities to think together about these important topics. So, here’s an idea. Why not form a book discussion group with some friends and family members and talk about two books: Overcoming Information Chaos, edited by Danielle M. Reiff, and Technology Is Not Neutral by Hare. These books might inspire you to write to your congressional leaders and make informed consumer decisions. At a minimum, you’ll have a good time together talking about fascinating topics!
Other Upriver Press News
We are happy to announce the release of Social Security for Future Generations, written by University of Chicago economist Dr. John Turner and coauthor Serena McCarthy. This book, if lawmakers take it seriously, could benefit millions of people in the years to come by protecting a ninety-year-old program from insolvency.
Also check out our newest book reviews (and a word history) at upriverpress.substack.com. Our most recent article is titled “How to Sound Intellectual in the AI Slopverse.” A little humor helps in these post-truth times!
Keep reading books . . .
The staff at Upriver Press
